HC Deb 02 May 1961 vol 639 c1100
3. Mr. du Cann

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he has further considered the proposal to introduce a decimal currency system; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Selwyn Lloyd

I cannot at present add anything to the reply which my hon. Friend received on 16th February.

Mr. du Cann

In view of the international character of sterling, in view of the fact that many Commonwealth countries have already made the change, and in view of the fact that it now seems that much opinion in the United Kingdom is also in favour of the change, will my right hon. and learned Friend inform the House whether he regards this as a Commonwealth matter and is therefore consulting the other Commonwealth countries? Further, when does he think he will be in a position to make a statement on the subject?

Mr. Lloyd

On the Commonwealth aspects, I said in answer to a previous Question that the consequences of South Africa's decision are being observed. We are in touch with both the Australian and New Zealand Governments. I am doing my best to accelerate our consideration of this matter.

Sir T. Moore

Are we then to lose our old friends the ell, the rood and the perch if this proposal is accepted?

Mr. Lloyd

That is another matter.

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