§ Sue DoughtyTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what source of paper is used for banknotes; and what measures have been taken to ensure that all timber used in this paper comes from(a) legal (b) sustainable sources. [136015]
§ Ruth KellyThe paper used for UK banknotes notes is not made from timber. It is manufactured by a specialist paper manufacturer from cotton fibre and linen rag, which gives its crisp and distinctive feel and makes it tougher and more durable than the more common wood pulp paper. Using copious amounts of water, the cotton is broken down into individual fibres and reformed into reels of paper of the quality required.