§ 30 and 31. Mr. BIRDasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer (1) whether the Government have been contemplating the production of £1 and 10s. notes by a process hitherto never applied to currency notes though often employed in Germany for postcards; whether experimental work is causing the delay in the issue of the new notes; whether he can name a date when the new notes will be ready for circulation; and (2) whether he is aware that the experience of the majority of countries where notes are in general use shows that the best protection against forgery is the use of intaglio notes with protected typographical printing; and, if so, will he take into consideration the use of such notes?
§ The CHANCELLOR of the EXCHEQUER (Mr. McKenna)The question of the production of the proposed new currency note is engaging constant attention, and I have the assistance of the best expert advice available. I do not think it is possible to discuss the technical points raised by my hon. Friend by way of question and answer.
§ Mr. BIRDWill the right hon. Gentleman consult the French Minister of Finance, who has had very great experience of the issue of currency notes?
§ Mr. McKENNAI will take the first opportunity I can to discuss the matter with him.