EURO REFERENDUM DATE

Early day motion 916, tabled 28 February 2002 by John Barrett (Liberal Democrat). Signed by 19 members.

That this House notes with concern reports that a referendum on UK entry in the European single currency could be held on 1st May 2003, the same date as the elections for the Scottish Parliament, Welsh Assembly and Northern Ireland Assembly; believes that important policy issues for the devolved administrations will be swamped by the euro debate if the referendum is held on this date; therefore calls on the Prime Minister to rule out 1st May 2003 as a potential date for a euro referendum; and believes that such a statement would end the unhelpful speculation and uncertainty that now exists, without the Government veering from its agreed policy.

Signatures by party: Liberal Democrat 17, Labour/Co-operative 1, UUP 1.