The Bank of England has announced that its next series of banknotes will feature a wildlife theme, replacing historical figures following a public consultation. Out of 44,000 respondents, 60 per cent selected nature as their preferred theme, prompting the decision.
Public Suggestions and Political Backlash
Among the public suggestions for figures to appear on the notes were Sir David Attenborough, Paddington Bear, and Sir Winston Churchill, who currently adorns the £5 note. However, the move has sparked criticism from some politicians. Nigel Farage and Kemi Badenoch labelled the change as “woke” and an “erasure of history.”
A BBC Question Time audience member also blamed the “radical left” for the shift.
Bank of England Statement
The Bank of England explained that while counterfeit resilience is the primary driver for issuing new notes, the redesign offers an opportunity to celebrate the UK’s rich wildlife. The institution emphasized that the decision reflects the public’s desire to highlight natural heritage.
Further details on the specific wildlife designs are expected in the coming months.
