The government's decision on the euro will reflect Britain's national economic interest, Gordon Brown has said.

Senior ministers met to discuss the euro issue yesterday, amid speculation that up to four of the five tests have been failed.

Speaking in Downing Street after the discussions, Brown said that there had been a "wide-ranging, detailed and comprehensive discussion".

"It will be the national economic interest that will be the determining factor, and we are all resolved that nothing must be done will put the stability of the British economy at risk. Indeed, we want to entrench that stability for the long term for Britain," he said.

Today's Independent reports that during the meeting the prime minister proposed introducing a bill allowing the government to call a euro referendum. It is thought such a move would send a positive signal of its intention to join.

The Treasury's 18 background studies will be published on Monday morning at 9.00am, with the detailed assessments published immediately after the chancellor has concluded his statement to MPs.

The Times claims the decision is a failure for pro-euro ministers.