The euro changeover board has launched the third phase of its public information programme on the new currency.

This focuses on the conversion rate for the pound against the euro and what will happen when euro notes and coins are introduced in 2002. The programme includes a TV, radio, press and billboard campaign.

"We want people to think euro. We have three years before euro notes and coins arrive on January 1st, 2002, so there will be plenty of time to get used to the idea of the new currency and to the conversion rate," said Mr Philip Hamell, chairman of the euro changeover board.