SEVEN of York's favourite Christmas presents are cheaper in Euros than in UK pounds, according to research by pro European group, York in Europe.
The popular Star Wars Jedi Dex - the encyclopaedia of the Star Wars universe - is 54 per cent cheaper in Germany and about 20 per cent can be saved on the Barbie Lipgloss maker and Barbie Rapunzel DVD.
The Harry Potter Hogwarts Lego castle is an average of eight per cent cheaper in the Euros.
The group's research came from comparing prices on the Toys R Us British website with its French and German sites.
The latest Pioneer DVD player is 20 per cent cheaper if bought in France and Germany, while an Olympus digital camera costs 18 per cent less there.
Savings of 27 per cent were also found on Chanel no 5 perfume.
Coun Tracey Simpson-Laing, a member of York in Europe, said: "British families spend more money at Christmas than at any other time of year. But this year's good cheer will be lessened by the news that many British Christmas presents are more expensive than in euros. Santa can easily shop around, but the rest of us can't enjoy lower European prices because Britain is not part of the Euro. Joining would mean
more competition and easier price comparisons, both of which would push British prices down.
"We expect that there will be a referendum next year when people will have a chance to vote for lower prices in the Euro and banish Scrooge for good.
"In the meantime, Christmas stockings will be fuller in the Euro countries."
Updated: 11:31 Monday, December 23, 2002
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