§ 1. Mr. MacCollasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer the average life of a £1 and of a 10s.note.
§ The Chancellor of the Exchequer (Mr. R. A. Butler)The average life of a £1 note is estimated at rather more than a year and of a 10s. note at about half that period.
§ Mr. MacCollIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the average life of a pound note before the war was six months? Does he not think that the additional life now allowed is the reason why there is so much dirty money?
§ Mr. ButlerWe are watching that aspect all the time. I am only giving the hon. Member the duration of the life of a pound note under the present Administration.
§ 2. Sir T. Mooreasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he will consider altering the colour, form, and design of Treasury notes, with a view to improving their appearance.
§ Mr. R. A. ButlerThere are no Treasury notes. The design of Bank notes is a matter for the Bank of England, which is aware of my hon. Friend's suggestion.
§ Sir T. MooreHas my right hon. Friend's attention been directed to our Scottish Bank notes, which reflect the history, romance and passionate character of our people, and would he consider suggesting to the Bank of England that it would be to the advantage of England that it should get the same facilities as Scotland?
§ Mr. ButlerI will certainly see that the Bank is aware of all my hon. Friend's suggestions.
§ Mr. RankinWould the right hon. Gentleman, instead of bothering about the appearance of Bank notes, seek to increase their value?