HC Deb 07 December 1999 vol 340 cc520-1W
Mr. Maude

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he plans to encourage private sector firms to intensify their preparations for possible future British membership of the euro. [101811]

Miss Melanie Johnson

It is up to individual businesses to decide how best to make any changeover if the UK decides to join the single currency. The Government's role is to provide the planning framework. That is why we published the outline national changeover plan in February 1999.

Mr. Maude

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what degree of labour market flexibility(a) within the UK and (b) between the UK and other EU countries would be sufficient to deal with the problems posed by asymmetric shocks were Britain to join the single currency. [101819]

Miss Melanie Johnson

I refer the right hon. Member to "UK Membership of the single currency, an assessment of the five economic tests", published by the Treasury in October 1997, copies of which are available in the Library.

Mr. Maude

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what economic indicators will be used in determining whether his five economic tests for EMU membership have been satisfied. [101818]

Miss Melanie Johnson

"UK Membership of the single currency, an assessment of the five economic tests", published by the Treasury in October 1997 used a wide range of economic indicators in determining whether the economic case for joining the single currency was clear and unambiguous.