§ 3. Mr. G. Williamsasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will take steps to increase the amount of shillings available.
§ 34. Mr. Peter Freemanasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is aware of the continued shortage of Is. coins in many areas; how many shillings are now in circulation; how many were coined last year; how many are being coined in 1955; and what other steps are being taken to meet the shortage.
§ Mr. R. A. ButlerI am aware of occasional complaints of local shortages. These can be met if application is made to the banks. About 640 million shillings are estimated to be in circulation now and the net issue in 1954 was 51 million. The programme of the Royal Mint for 1955 provides for an output of 50 million shillings. This programme can be varied to meet requirements as reported by the banks.