§ Mr. Laurence RobertsonTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer by what means he plans to enable businesses which wish to use the euro in Britain to do so; what estimate he has made of the cost of such measures; what plans he has to make it possible for businesses which wish to use other currencies to do so; and if he will make a statement. [80667]
§ Ms Hewitt[holding answer 15 April 1999]The introduction of the euro in 11 member states at the start of this year signalled a fundamental change in the business environment for UK firms. In recognition of this, the Government have taken a number of steps to facilitate UK business use of the euro. These steps are outlined in the regular Treasury report "Getting ready for the euro", copies of which are in the House Library.
Where there is demand, and where it is sensible, Government Departments and agencies already deal with UK firms in major foreign currencies.