§ 14. Sir E. Keelingasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is aware that gold coins have been struck in previous reigns since the fourteenth century, and that sets of gold coins have commemorated previous coronations; and whether the Royal Mint will issue a limited number of such sets on the occasion of next year's Coronation.
§ Mr. Boyd-CarpenterI am aware that gold coins have been struck in previous reigns. The decision whether or not to strike a commemorative coin comes within the Royal Prerogative. I have, at present, no information to give the House.
§ Sir E. KeelingMay I ask my hon. Friend whether he personally agrees that it is desirable, if it is at all possible, to maintain the long traditions of the British gold coinage, especially as many of the coins will earn dollars?
§ Mr. Boyd-CarpenterIn view of the second sentence of my answer, I do not think that it would be appropriate for me to comment on my hon. Friend's supplementary question.
§ Mr. EdeArising out of that supplementary question, is the Prime Minister or the Chancellor of the Exchequer considering obtaining advice on the exercise of the Royal Prerogative in this matter?
§ Mr. Boyd-CarpenterI have no statement to make on that at present.
§ Mr. NicholsonIs my hon. Friend aware that there is great public interest, as well as interest in this House, in the question of the design of new coinage, and will he take steps to associate this House in some way with that matter?
§ Mr. Boyd-CarpenterI fully appreciate the interest of my hon. Friend and the House, which I fully share. I should require notice of the second part of the Question.