LETTER : Markets will decide fate of the euro

Sir: You are quite right to point out the dangers of rabid Euro- scepticism ("Tories who chime with Europe", 10 December). In a few months' time, when the final criteria for the euro are established, the markets will quickly decide whether it will fly or not, and therein lies the national interest Mr Clarke is so keen to protect.

On a personal level, we must all decide what is in our own best interest. Love the pound as I might, if the euro means cheaper mortgages, possibly at fixed interest, and more money in my pocket generally, I'll take it. If the Government opts out despite market confidence in the new currency, how will they stop the massive devaluation which would inevitably follow? They can't make it illegal to hold euro accounts, can they?

ROBIN PRIOR

London E8