A LEADING East Lancashire Liberal Democrat has urged the Government to sign up to a single European currency to give industry a "fighting chance".

Gordon Birtwistle, the group's leader on Burnley Council, made the plea as top party officials toured Stuart Engineering in Oswaldtwistle.

The company, which has been in business for 25 years and employs 40 staff, makes precision parts for a variety of customers including the oil and nuclear industries.

Mr Birtwistle, the firm's managing director for seven years, played host to Liberal Democrat treasury spokesman Ed Davey MP and European candidate Chris Davies. The officials heard that the company's customers want Britain to join the Euro to promote fairer competition with other countries.

Mr Birtwistle said his clients were struggling to export goods because of the strong pound.

He added that the Euro would bring confidence and stability and allow the purchase of expensive new equipment.

Mr Birtwistle said: "Every single one of my customers wants Britain to join the Euro and put an end to the fluctuations in currency values which prevent long-term planning.

"We are as efficient as companies in other countries and we can win plenty of new business if only we are on a level playing field - then we'll have a fighting chance.

"It's not about sacrificing national identity. Joining the Euro is about building a stronger economy, allowing Britain to compete fairly and creating more jobs."

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