WITH the value of the euro now matching the US dollar, a Bolton Euro MP is urging North-west manufacturers to press for Britain to join the common European currency at the earliest opportunity.

Liberal Democrat Chris Davies said that conditions were now on track to permit British entry at a favourable exchange range without the risk of importing inflation.

He hit out at euro-sceptics who he has accused of becoming increasingly desperate to find new arguments against the euro as their old ones were defeated.

He said: "Joining the euro will give North-west manufacturers currency stability within Europe, increase Britain's ability to shape the economic factors which affect us and protect our levels of inward investment."