Don't bank on Britain being in EMU by 2002

Article Abstract:

The UK government has made it clear that it is committed in principle to joining European economic and monetary union (EMU) at some point in the future. However, this will not take place during the present Parliament. It is reported that Chancellor Gordon Brown is now keen to see an early election in 2001, followed quickly by a referendum on EMU membership. However, it may not prove politically advisable to hold a referendum at that point. Furthermore, there is no guarantee that the economic cycle would be at a favourable stage for EMU membership. For this reason, UK membership of EMU in around 2001 to 2002 is by no means guaranteed.

Administration of General Economic Programs, Intnl Economic Policy, Planning, International economic relations, European Monetary System

---

Brown's stance tougher than markets realise

Article Abstract:

It is wrong to accuse UK Chancellor Gordon Brown of failing to introduce sufficient measures in his recent Budget to limit consumer demand. He did not lead observers to believe that he was prepared to undertake short-term fiscal interventionism, and using tax increases to control consumer demand before the end of 1997 would not have been feasible in any case. Brown's critics have also failed to take account of the fact that the pre-Budget baseline calculations already contained a significant degree of fiscal tightening.

Public Finance Activities, Fiscal Policy, Tax policy, Brown, Gordon (British politician)

---

Tax cuts a risk Tories cannot afford to take

Article Abstract:

There are a number of key strategies which the UK's Conservative government should now be pursuing if it wants to ensure that it has the best possible chance of winning the next general election. It must realise that it cannot deceive voters or financial markets with empty pre-election promises. It must consider whether moves to boost the economy in the pre-election period are really necessary, and it must be extremely cautious about making tax cuts simply in order to gain popularity.

Similar abstracts:

• Abstracts: A tightening of anti-terror laws in Britain is inevitable. It's better to speak too loud than to say nothing at all
• Abstracts: Paul's fiancee is accused of killing their baby. He was unaware that she was pregnant. Did Caroline kill her baby?
• Abstracts: In Ireland, no war is still good news. Without Gerry, they'll need a miracle. Blurring the way round Ulster's impasse
• Abstracts: Oswald, Enoch and David - Britain demands much more than charisma. Yes, I agree with Enoch (except ...) (influence of politician Enoch Powell)(Column)

This website is not affiliated with document authors or copyright owners. This page is provided for informational purposes only. Unintentional errors are possible.