Italy backs British entry to euro club
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Tony Blair could win the battle for British entry to the elite club of EU countries planning the single European currency, in spite of the rebuff this week for Gordon Brown.
The Prime Minister will launch Britain's presidency at Waterloo International station today with renewed hopes of Britain gaining entry to the euro- x committee which will have control over the planning for the single currency.
The Independent has learned that Romano Prodi, the Italian Prime Minister, told Tony Blair at a private meeting in Downing Street on Wednesday that Italy will support Britain's bid for membership of the elite club, which includes Italy, France and Germany, at the Luxembourg summit.
The offer made by Mr Prodi, who will be at today's ceremony, has raised hopes in Whitehall that Mr Blair will be able to pull off a deal at the summit next week.
France and Germany are opposed to British membership, but Mr Prodi told the Prime Minister that he believed it was possible to reach a deal at Luxembourg with Britain becoming a non-voting member with "observer" status. Downing Street said the meeting was routine, but it could prove to be highly significant in the build-up to the summit.
Italy's support will be seen as part of a long-term strategy to protect its position in Europe by forging alliances with Britain.
Britain is anxious to be included in the committee to retain its influence over the creation of the euro, and in making sure the terms for entry are observed by other states.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments