SHADOW Industry Minister John Redwood addressed local business people about European currency.

The well-known Eurosceptic, who tried unsuccessfully to become leader of the Conservative party, paid a visit to Bolton and Bury Chamber of Commerce in Bridgeman Place.

He spoke with a paperback copy of his book, Our Currency, Our Country, on the boardroom table in front of him.

Afterwards there was the unusual sight of a recent Minister of the Crown and his aides selling autographed copies for £8.

Several members handed over the cash as Mr Redwood gave a lesson in effective retailing.

"They are £7.99 but we do not have any pennies," he said.

Mr Redwood urged businesses with European connections to find out what their suppliers and customers were doing about the introduction of the Euro in January, 1999.

Although Britain is not involved, German and French businesses, for example, will be able to use the Euro or existing currencies.

He also predicted "something of a muddle" for European businesses in retail, leisure and activities such as car parks.

For an initial six-month period businesses handling money from the public would need two tills - one for Euros and the other for domestic currencies.

He estimated that a similar exercise in Britain would cost £10,000 million. Mr Redwood addresses the meeting.(Ref F926/31a)

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