§ Mr. SumbergTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he has any plans to introduce new 1p and 2p coins.
§ Mr. RyderIncreases in the world price of base and non-ferrous metals have meant that the cost of producing United Kingdom 1p and 2p coins in bronze now exceeds their face value. The Master of the Mint is therefore considering proposals to replace the present bronze coins with coins made of copper-plated steel. The plated coins would have the same weight and diameter as the existing bronze coins but would be very slightly thicker. The new coins would circulate with the existing bronze coins.
The Royal Mint has begun preliminary discussions with representatives of the vending industry, who are the only people likely to be affected by the difference in specification. The Mint will now contact representatives of the blind and disabled and other interested parties, mainly to reassure them that there would be no noticeable change in the size or feel of the coins.
No final decision has been made about when the coins would be introduced. It would not be before 1991 at the earliest. If and when a date is set, it will be announced in the usual way.