§ Mr. RobathanTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what is the cost of the current advertising campaign urging business to prepare for the euro. [61017]
§ Ms HewittI have been asked to reply.
The Euro Preparations Unit's communication campaign on the euro is specifically targeted at ensuring that UK businesses especially small and medium enterprises (SMEs), are aware of the implications of the introduction of the single currency from 1 January 1999. The campaign involved press advertising in July, direct mailing to 1.6 million SMEs, supported by TV commercials in September, and further press and radio advertising in October.
The television, press and radio elements of the campaign cost approximately £4.75 million. This figure does not include VAT.