Co-op MPs back the euro

SIX Co-operative MPs have given their backing for the UK to join the euro in the next two years.
In the Commons nearly 100 MPs have signed an early day motion which "looks forward" to a successful referendum on the UK&#039s membership of the euro in this Parliament.
The six Co-op MPs who have added their voice to the argument are Adrian Bailey (West Bromwich West); George Foulkes (Carrick, Cumnock & Doon Valley); Mike Gapes (Ilford South); Mark Hendrick (Preston); Jon Owen Jones (Cardiff Central); and Mark Lazarowicz (Edinburgh North and Leith).
An assessment of the five economic tests on euro membership laid out by Chancellor Gordon Brown is expected to be published in June, according to the motion.
The MPs add they are "concerned that by staying out of the euro Britain risks economic isolation through a further fall in trade and inward investment".
The motion continues: "It is essential for the UK&#039s own economic prosperity that it plays a leading role in the development of Europe&#039s economy; [and] recognises that it is almost impossible to play that role while remaining outside the euro."
As the News went to press 92 MPs had signed the motion ? of those MPs 75 were Labour, 15 Liberal Democrats, one Plaid Cymru and one member from the Scottish National Party.