European monetary union: the benefits, the problems and the traveller's tale : LETTER

Sir: Might I make a small contribution to the single currency debate? Without any pretence to being an economist, I would like to relate an everyday tale of ordinary folk.

I work as a tour escort, taking groups of up to 50 Britons on coach holidays to the Continent. Upon arrival at Calais, I like to ask my passengers how many favour a single currency - I am lucky to see three hands raised. Eight days later, having travelled through France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Austria, Italy and France, once again, I ask the same question - every single hand goes up.

Sincerely,

Sam Bartlett

Cheltenham