Release Date:
15 January 2002
The Welsh Liberal Democrat Assembly Member for
South Wales West, Peter Black, has added his voice to those of Labour backbench
MPs, in calling for an early referendum on the Euro, preferably by Autumn of
this year.
Mr. Black raised the issue in First Minister’s
questions today when he asked Rhodri Morgan to add his voice to those of his
party colleagues in pressing the Prime Minister for an early vote on the
Euro. Mr. Black referred to an opinion
poll taken earlier in the week, which, for the first time, showed a majority in
Wales in favour of Britain joining the Euro.
"The introduction of the single currency in
12 Countries on 1 January has brought home to many people the advantages it
offers", said Mr. Black. "More importantly, with nearly 72% of Welsh
trade taking place with Eurozone Countries it is crucial to the future and
stability of the Welsh economy that a decision is taken as soon as
possible."
"Liberal Democrats support entry into t he Euro when the economic
conditions are right and after the British people have had their say on the
principle of entry. That vote should
take place earlier rather than later and, in my view, by autumn of this year,
so that businesses know where they stand."
END