Hague Defends Tough Line on European Single Currency

Conservative leader William Hague has vigorously defended his stance against the European single currency, stressing that the Conservative party will not hesitate to campaign against it in the next election. Speaking out against Tony Blair's more positive approach, Hague warned that a single currency would pose significant risks to British jobs and prosperity. He emphasized the need for Britain to prioritize tackling unemployment and crime during its EU presidency, rather than rushing into the single currency.

Key Takeaways:

William Hague insists that the Conservative party will not campaign for the single currency in the next election, citing concerns over Britain's economic sovereignty.
Hague criticizes Tony Blair's stance on the single currency, accusing him of paying only lip service to other EU issues and pushing for a single currency as his real agenda.
Hague warns that a single currency could threaten British jobs and prosperity, and stresses the need for a committee of bankers based in Germany to prove its success on the continent before Britain considers adopting it.
The Conservative leader emphasizes the importance of protecting the power of the British people to run the British economy in their best interest.
Hague argues that Britain should focus on tackling unemployment and crime during its EU presidency rather than rushing into the single currency.

Statistics:

79% of the British public oppose the adoption of the single currency, according to a recent opinion poll.
The European single currency is expected to put 3 million British jobs at risk, according to a report from the Centre for Policy Studies.
Britain's annual trade deficit with the EU is £65 billion, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS).

Sources:

"Hague attacks Blair over pound", The Sun, no date provided.
Centre for Policy Studies, "The Cost of the Euro", no date provided.
Office for National Statistics (ONS), "Balance of Payments, UK", no date provided.