§ Mr. Jannerasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer with whom he held consultations before approving the design of the new £1 coin.
§ Mr. Moore[pursuant to his reply, 14 July 1983, c. 396]: In January 1981 the Royal Mint circulated a pamphlet on the specifications of the new £1 coin to those principally concerned, inviting their comments on the proposals and discussions were held with the various parties as necessary. It was not possible to consult everybody about details of the new coin but the consultative document was made available to Members of Parliament, bulk cash handlers, including security companies, the banks, transport concerns, retailers, service and vending industries. In recognition of the special problems of the disadvantaged, organisations for the elderly, handicapped and blind were consulted. Tests were carried out by Nottingham university for the Royal Mint to ascertain distinguishability of the new coin compared with others in circulation. The views of all those consulted were taken into account when finally deciding on the specification of the new coin.