Letter: Into battle over EMU

Sir: Last month, at the newsagent in Gozzano, Italy where I buy my Independent, I was handed a free floppy disk which, in graphic style sets out the case for Italy to join European monetary union. The disk, which also gives a fascinating statistical breakdown on all other EU countries, was sponsored by Italy's treasury ministry.

The lira is not one of Europe's most stable currencies. But Italy, with all its many fiscal fault-lines, has a real commitment to make Europe work. Yes, there is resistance to EMU membership, but it is largely about the terms and constraints. There is little lack of will to consummate the EU marriage by this final act such as you find in over-cautious, xenophobic Britain.

DAVID ROWLANDS

Basingstoke, Hampshire