To ask the Prime Minister, pursuant to his answer of 13 April 1999, Official Report, columns 2–3, for what reasons the determining factor on any Government decision underpinning membership of a single currency is whether the economic case for the United Kingdom joining is clear and unambiguous rather than the constitutional and political implications of that decision. [81147]

I refer the hon. Member to my statement in the House on 23 February 1999,Official Report, column 179, where I said:

"I do not dismiss the constitutional or political issues … If joining a single currency is good for British jobs and British industry, if it enhances British influence and power, I believe it is right for Britain to overcome these constitutional and political arguments and fears behind them. For the very reason of the sensitivity of those arguments, we have said very clearly that the Government can recommend, but the people will decide in a referendum."