HC Deb 07 October 1941 vol 374 cc833-4
45. Mr. De la Bère

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he will confer with the appropriate authorities at the Royal Mint with a view to the issue of pennies and halfpennies bearing the emblem of the Spitfire and Hurricane, as a tribute to the Royal Air Force?

The Chancellor of the Exchequer (Sir Kingsley Wood)

My hon. Friend's suggestion has been considered, but owing to the need to economise labour and material it will not be desirable to make any changes in the design of our coinage under present circumstances.

Mr. De la Bère

Would it not be appropriate to have some memorial to the gallantry and heroism of the Royal Air Force and perpetuate that for all time by placing an emblem on our coinage?

Sir K. Wood

I am afraid there would be no logical stopping ground to such suggestions.

Mr. De la Bère

Then my right hon. Friend does not entirely turn down the idea?