HC Deb 17 March 1955 vol 538 c1436
17. Sir T. Moore

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he will consider reducing the size of the £5 and £10 Bank of England notes, while retaining the present type of paper, but improving its texture and quality.

The Financial Secretary to the Treasury (Mr. Henry Brooke)

No £10 notes have been issued since 1943. The size and quality of £5 notes is a matter for the Bank of England, who I am sure will take note of my hon. Friend's suggestion.

Sir T. Moore

While thanking my hon. Friend for that helpful reply, would he bear in mind that these notes are now happily found in most pay packets, and, furthermore, that they are sometimes found in wallets? Therefore, would it not be a good idea to suggest to the Bank of England that they should be made to a size suitable to fit both the pay packet and the wallet?

Mr. Brooke

I am certain that the Bank takes careful note of everything that is said in this House, especially concerning Bank notes, but these matters are really not within my responsibility.

Mr. Emrys Hughes

Has the Minister any idea what an Ayr bus conductor would say if offered a £10 note?