Mr. Andersonasked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury whether he is aware that coinage of the realm is being used for propaganda purposes by embossing slogans on coins; and what steps he is prepared to take to stop the practice?
§ Captain CrookshankThe circulation of coin defaced in the manner described by the hon. Member has not been brought to the attention of the authorities. I would, however, point out that it is an offence under the Coinage Offences Act, 1936, to deface a coin by stamping names or words thereon or to tender or utter such defaced coins. If the hon. Member can furnish me with any further information and, if possible, with a specimen of the coins in question, I will see that it is brought to the attention of the Director of Public Prosecutions.
I may add that the public can help to stop offences by refusing toaccept such defaced coins, which are not legal tender.