Press & PR

Prime Minister Gordon Brown has called on UK firms to increase their activity in the European marketplace to help spread the ideals of free trade and economic reform.

In a speech viewed as a renewal of his commitment to Europe, Mr Brown told the Business for a New Europe audience that membership of the European Union (EU) was "the key" to business success.

"I strongly believe that we must remain fully engaged in Europe, pushing forward the reforms that are essential for Europe's and Britain's economic future," he told the industry forum.

"We must be whole-hearted about a vision of an open, flexible, outward-looking Europe investing in the skills of its people."

There are increasing opportunities for British firms to engage with new customers from the continent as the EU continues its expansion, having taken in 12 former Eastern Bloc countries in recent years.

But communicating with offices, sales reps or clients overseas can see phone bills soar rapidly.

However, a Vonage voice plan may provide the solution with unlimited free calls over the internet to 35 countries, including eastern European states such as Poland, Bulgaria, Hungary and the Czech Republic, available for a flat fee of £14.99 a month.