Prodi increases euro pressure

Sterling's strength may raise pressure for UK entry to the euro

European Commission President Romano Prodi has said the UK would find it "difficult" to stay out of a successful single currency.

A lot will depend on the fluctuation of the pound

Romano Prodi

His comments were made during an interview being broadcast at 1200GMT on Sunday on BBC Two's On The Record programme.

Mr Prodi predicted the strength of sterling would increase pressure for British entry.

His views are not new but their timing is significant as debate within the UK about the euro has heightened in recent days.

Romano Prodi's comments are significant in their timing

Mr Prodi said of the prospects for the UK joining the euro: "In my opinion some day it will become convenient.

"But it depends upon our behaviour. Let's say if the euro will deliver, as I think, it would be difficult to stay out."

Mr Prodi, who was Tony Blair's choice for the commission's top job, said: "A lot will depend on the fluctuation of the pound.

"You had difficulty in the last month of competition for the British economy and it is clear that a country like Britain must be competitive."

He forecast that in "not too long a time" the euro would probably be as strong as the US dollar.

Mr Prodi's comments come one day after the Conservatives staged a day of action in 330 constituencies under the party's Keep The Pound campaign.

They also follow reported comments by Trade Secretary Stephen Byers, urging his own government to start "making the case" and stressing the benefits of joining the euro.