HC Deb 01 March 2001 vol 363 cc765-6W
22. Mr. Gordon Prentice

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what assessment he has made of the number of retailers planning to accept the euro in advance of any decision to make it legal tender in the United Kingdom; and if he will make a statement. [150158]

Miss Melanie Johnson

It is entirely a commercial decision for UK businesses to determine whether or not they wish to accept euro, or any foreign currency. The fourth Report on Euro Preparations provides updated information on help available to UK businesses preparing for the introduction of euro cash in the euro area on 1 January 2002.

29. Mr. Syms

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what his policy is on the timing of British participation in the European single currency. [150165]

Miss Melanie Johnson

I refer the hon. Member to the answer given to the hon. Member for Hertford and Stortford (Mr. Wells) on 25 January 2001,Official Report, column 702W.

33. Mr. Corbyn

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what assessment he has made of the impact on economic policy formulation of membership of the European single currency. [150169]

Miss Melanie Johnson

The Government have said they will only recommend joining a successful single currency if it is in our national economic interest to do so, and if the economic case for the UK joining is clear and unambiguous.