HC Deb 15 April 1999 vol 329 c327W
25. Mr. Edward Davey

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what plans he has for discussions with the Governor of the European Central Bank and the Commission about the Maastricht conditions on currency stability and how they apply to the UK's adoption of the euro. [79469]

Ms Hewitt

The Chancellor of the Exchequer has regular discussions on a range of economic issues with Central Bank Governors from other countries, including representatives from the euro-area, and the European Commission.

The Government's new framework for macroeconomic policy provides the best platform to deliver greater exchange rate stability.

29. Mrs. Ann Winterton

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will estimate the cost to the United Kingdom Government of conversion from sterling to the euro. [79473]

Ms Hewitt

The cost to the Government of conversion to the euro would depend on the detailed approach that the public sector took to the changeover. The outline National Changeover Plan is a first step in planning how the UK would make the changeover to the single currency. A further plan will be published in around a year's time.

32. Dr. Julian Lewis

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will make a statement about the timing of any referendum on British entry into economic and monetary union. [79476]

Ms Hewitt

The Government's Outline National Changeover Plan published on 23 February 1999 explained that, if the Government decide to recommend joining the single currency and Parliament agrees, the speed at which the UK could move to a referendum would depend on how quickly the practical arrangements for a referendum could be put in place. The minimum period in which the UK could move from a decision by Government to a referendum is about 4 months.