BUSINESS and economic experts were last night reluctant to comment on Black & Decker's failure to suppress rumours that it will quit the North-East unless the UK signs up to the euro.

But they all called for more information and discussion over the issue, to enable businesses to plan for the future.

Llew Aviss, membership director of the North-East Chamber of Commerce, said: "Real economic issues, such as the views of major businesses on Britain's euro position, should be explained and discussed outside the emotive and political implications which surround the single currency.

"The chamber is urging the government to establish a timetable for a full and thorough debate in which, through consultation with our members, we can play an active role in reaching an informed decision on UK membership."

Dr Barrie Craven, reader in public accountability with Newcastle Business School, Northumbria University, believes companies such as Black & Decker would not leave the area if its decision depends on the euro.

He said: "The success of a business relies much more on skills base, workforce and the product they supply.

"If a business is strong it should make little impact whether or not the UK joins the euro. Many can agree rates for import and export months in advance so, with careful planning and organisation, should be able to work with any currency."

John Elliott, director of Bishop Auckland firm Ebac and chairman of Business for Sterling North-East, said: "Britain is a good place to do business, with lower taxes and less business regulation than the Eurozone.

"If the Eurozone is such a great place to do business, why has Black & Decker moved production to the Czech Republic - which is not even in the euro?"