Scottish Government

This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007

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Discussions held on euro preparations

02/09/2003

Alistair Darling and Jack McConnell were joined by key representatives from the private, public and voluntary sectors today as Scotland steps up its euro preparations.

The first meeting of the Scottish Euro Preparations Committee took place in Edinburgh under the chairmanship of the Scottish Secretary Alistair Darling. Its role will be to provide a lead in planning and preparation in Scotland and develop lines of communication with the different sectors and interests which will help to identify key issues for Scottish euro preparation.

The Chancellor of the Exchequer announced on 9 June, proposals for the establishment of Scottish, Welsh and Northern Ireland Euro Preparations Committees as part of the Government's stepping up of preparatory work for potential future UK membership of the euro.

Opening the first meeting, Alistair Darling said:

"One of the lessons from those countries which adopted the euro in 2002 is that early preparation, good planning and good communication are essential in achieving a smooth and cost-effective changeover. This is why our policy is to 'prepare and decide'. If the economic tests are met and a referendum results in a decision to adopt the euro we want to be ready to achieve our aim of full changeover within three years of the vote. "

Addressing the Committee Jack McConnell said:

"The establishment of this Committee underlines the commitment of private, public and voluntary organisations in Scotlandto earlyplanning for the potential futureUKmembership of the Euro. As we take this work forward, it will ensure thatScotland's views are represented at the highest level of government.

"The Prime Minister and Chancellor have indicated the UK Government's strengthened commitment to and support for the principle of joining the single currency. Given our shared aim of improving public services and economic growth, it is therefore vital that we inScotlandare prepared for its possible introduction and are able to achieve the maximum economic benefits."

The Treasury have outlined a broad remit for the Scottish, Welsh and Northern Ireland Committees to:

· oversee preparations across the economy in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland;

· generate awareness of preparations issues;

· ensure co-ordination and co-operation between key sectors;

· consult on the 3 ^rd National Changeover Plan in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland; and

· feed back particular Scottish, Welsh and Northern Irish views to the Chancellor's Standing Committee.

It is envisaged that the Committee will meet around twice a year. Members of the Committee are as follows: