HC Deb 29 July 1988 vol 138 cc739-40W
Mr. Spearing

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer at which meeting Her Majesty's Government have assented to the principle of economic and monetary union with the European Economic Community; in what manner any such agreement has been expressed; and by what means it has been communicated to Parliament.

Mr. Lilley

The first of the many meetings at which Community Heads of Government, with United Kingdom participation, reaffirmed the objective of economic and monetary union took place on 19–20 October 1972, and was reported in the subsequent communiqué. The outcome of that meeting was reported to Parliament on 23 October 1972, at columns 791–94.

Mr. Spearing

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what assessment he has made of the advantages and disadvantages to the United Kingdom of(a) an EEC central bank and (b) a common currency in the EEC; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Lilley

I refer the hon. Member to the Prime Minister's statement in the House on 23 June, at columns 1254–55.