Jim O'Keeffe
Ceist:284 Mr. J. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Finance the steps, if any, taken to encourage the United Kingdom to join EMU and to adopt the euro; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5105/99]
Written Answers. - EMU Membership.
A decision by the UK on moving to stage three of EMU and the adoption of the euro is entirely a matter for the British parliament and the British people. In October 1997 the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Mr. Gordon Brown, indicated that the UK is unlikely to join in the lifetime of the current Westminster Parliament, barring some unforseen change in economic circumstances. The Chancellor also stated that, if the single currency is successful, and the economic case for Britain is clear and unambiguous, the UK should be part of it.