HC Deb 12 February 1981 vol 998 cc401-2W
Mr. Greville Janner

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he will now arrange for the issue of a £2 coin and of a £5 coin.

Mr. Lawson

I have no plans to issue any new coins in addition to those announced on 27 January.

Mr. Greville Janner

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he will conduct a survey into the views of the general public as to the shape, size and weight of the forthcoming 20p and £1 coins.

Mr. Lawson

No. The proposals for a new 20p and £1 coin take into account the results of market research carried out by the Royal Mint at an earlier stage and the consultations now being conducted will concentrate on the cash handling organisations. Any suggestions submitted by members of the general public will, however, be carefully considered.

Mr. Greville Janner

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he will arrange for the minting of a golden £5 coin similar to the £5 coin in precious metal shortly to be introduced by the Isle of Man.

Mr. Lawson

The Royal Mint issued a gold proof £5 coin in 1980 as part of a set. The 1981 programme of proof issues is still under consideration.