§ Mr. AllenTo ask the Prime Minister what representations he has had on the similarity of design between the £5 note and the £20 note; if he will withdraw the £20 note; and if he will make a statement.
§ The Prime Minister[holding answer 6 December 1991]: I have received a number of letters on the new £5 and £20 notes. However, the design of banknotes is the responsibility of the Bank of England and not the Government. The bank believes that its new notes achieve an appropriate blend of security features and distinguishing characteristics. It will, however, take account of the reactions to the notes already issued in designing future issues.