BIRMINGHAM, Nov 23: Citing the failures of the past, Prime Minister Tony Blair mounted a stirring case on Friday for Britain’s future at the heart of Europe, in his strongest plea yet for the single currency.

He told an audience in Birmingham, central England, that it was a “tragedy” how past British leaders had failed to grasp the emerging reality of European integration.

He vowed not to let his government make the same mistakes.

“Britain’s future is inextricably linked with Europe,” Blair said. “To get the best out of it we must make the most of our strength and influence within it.

“To do so we must be whole-hearted, not half-hearted, partners in Europe.”

His speech was seen as preparing the way for eventual entry into the euro, which enters circulation in 12 other EU countries in January.

He made only one direct reference linking Britain to the euro, reiterating the government line.

“If the economic tests are met, political or constitutional barriers should not prevent us joining,” with the final decision left to a referendum.

The tests Britain are meant to ensure euro membership will not damage jobs, manufacturing and investment.

Nevertheless, it was not so much the words of his speech that counted, but the tone. And it was, by consent, one of the most impassioned pleas for Europe of his premiership.

John Monks, leader of the pro-euro Trades Union Congress, welcomed Blair’s “positive message.”

“With (euro) notes and coins set for circulation from January, the time is surely right to step up the campaign for hearts and minds.”

Earlier, Downing Street was forced to deny as “totally erroneous” a report in the Sun daily that Blair was delaying a referendum on euro membership until 2005, to coincide with a general election.

Blair has promised his government will assess by mid-2003 whether the tests have been met before any referendum.

Opinion polls show most Britons do not share his enthusiasm — “No. No. No. No,” thundered the Sun in an editorial Friday.

Two polls this week show opposition may be softening. One, in The Guardian, had 58 percent against the euro and 28 percent in support, much narrower than last year’s 71-18 percent gap.

In the other, by the pro-euro Britain in Europe group, most people believed Europe had a role in helping economic stability.

Blair said Britain had suffered through isolation.

He said: “The tragedy for British politics — for Britain — has been that politicians have consistently failed... to appreciate the emerging reality of European integration.”—AFP