Nr Norris added that the onus was on consumers not to accept any attempt by shops and businesses to attempt price hikes during the changeover period.

BBC: 'Smooth' changeover to euro

But its attempt to persuade depositors voluntarily to accept bonds has failed, with a take up of only about 15%.

ECONOMIST: Argentina's presidency

The British government - desperate for a deal - pushed him in the other direction, urging him to accept the IRA's offers in an attempt to re-establish the institutions of devolved government.

BBC: David Trimble

For them, the Dutch answer is to accept that they will never shake off their addiction and, instead, to attempt to control it.

ECONOMIST: Clamping down on shooting up

This will matter, because there will doubtless be an attempt to amend the bill in the Commons - and the government might accept some changes - but that will be backed up by a much more serious threat in the Lords, where the Commission's membership can muster formidable support for the changes they want to make.

BBC: Week ahead