§ Mr. Wheelerasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer, pursuant to his reply to the hon. Member for Paddington on 27 November, whether he will arrange that the new format of data to be published by the Royal Mint will include the same material previously provided up to 1977.
§ Sir Geoffrey HoweNo.
§ Mr. Wheelerasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is satisfied with the confidentiality of information on details of orders for foreign Governments undertaken by the Royal Mint.
§ Sir Geoffrey HoweI am satisfied that it is for issuing authorities to announce details of orders placed with the Royal Mint.
§ Mr. Wheelerasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer, pursuant to his reply to the hon. Member for Paddington on 27 November on the Royal Mint Advisory Committee, what is the role and function of the committee.
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§ Sir Geoffrey HoweThe Royal Mint Advisory Committee was set up in 1922 as a standing committee, with the approval of His Majesty King George V, by administrative Act of the then Chancellor of the Exchequer in his role as Master of the Mint. It advises the Royal Mint on the design of coins, medals, seals and decorations.
There were two reasons for establishing a standing committee:
- 1. the then poor quality of numismatic art;
- 2. it was felt that the deputy master, as a permanent civil servant, ought to be supported by the advice and assistance of an independent committee.
Members are appointed by the Sovereign on the recommendation of the Chancellor of the Exchequer in his capacity as Master of the Mint.