61.   The convergence criteria set in the Maastricht Treaty on European economic and political union set a limit for public sector debt of three percent of gross domestic product.

62.   The final text was beefed up by the national leadership to take into account fierce rank-and-file hostility to the Maastricht economic convergence criteria.

63.   The government said the improvement in public finances means that no further budget strengthening measures are needed to meet the convergence criteria for a single European currency.

64.   The only condition is, naturally, having to meet the convergence criteria, he said.

65.   The mark held firm despite reports in the German press that at present Germany fails to meet the convergence criteria for a single European currency.