20/05/2002

Euro referendum could take place next year

Former Labour cabinet Minister Peter Mandelson has claimed that a referendum on the single currency could take place as early as next year.

According to reports, Chancellor Gordon Brown has shown confidence that the five economic tests essential for membership of the eurozone are close to being met, with a deadline set for June 2003 for the final assessment.

Mr Mandelson's comments echo those made by Transport Secretary Stephen Byers, who said a referendum would likely take place next year, while Tony Blair, speaking to BBC's Newsnight programme, said that it could be "getting close".

However, business backing for the euro is fading fast, according to UK lobby group, the Confederation of British Industry (CBI). Sir John Egan, who is about to take over as CBI President, falls firmly on the eurosceptic side, and has already made it clear that he opposes the idea of entry into the eurozone.

Speaking to the Financial Times, he stated: "Strong arguments in favour of joining have yet to be made and my suspicion is that there aren't any."

He then went on to stress that a serious and substantial debate needed to take place clarifying the politics of the euro before business could make up its mind as to the potential benefits of entry.

(CL)


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