§ 11. Tom BrakeTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what representations he has received from the tourism industry on the impact of the level of the pound against the euro since 1997. [35752]
§ Ruth KellyThe Chancellor and other Treasury Ministers receive regular representations from across the business community on many issues and we value their insights. The Government fully appreciate that the weakness of the euro, together with a sharp slowdown in the world economy last year, has made conditions difficult for tourism and other exporting industries.
The Government's commitment to helping the tourism industry has been underlined by Monday's announcement of the unique package of match funding with the industry for promotion of the UK overseas. This £20 million package means than an extra £38 million has now been granted from the reserve, in support of tourism promotion, since the start of foot and mouth. This is at a time of great economic pressure.
§ 18. Mr. Nicholas WintertonTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what assessment he has made of the performance of the euro since 1 January. [35761]
§ Ruth KellyIt is not appropriate for the Government to comment on day-to-day developments in the foreign exchange market. The Government are pleased that the euro area is experiencing a broadly smooth changeover.
§ 29. Mr. HopkinsTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what recent discussions he has had with his German counterpart on the European single currency. [35774]
§ Ruth KellyThe Chancellor has frequent discussions on a wide range of issues with his European counterparts.