The Bank of England has launched a public consultation to replace historical figures, including former Prime Minister Winston Churchill, with 18 endemic wild animal species on new British pound banknotes. Animals such as the owl, puffin, great curassow, and frog are among the candidates.
According to Oxu.Az citing TASS, citizens can participate in online voting starting June 3 via mail or the official government portal. Voters will propose two animal species from three categories: mammals, birds (including amphibians, insects, and fish). Voting ends on July 3.
The new designs are intended for £5, £10, £20, and £50 banknotes. The central bank emphasized: "It is important that the four different notes feature animals representing different natural ecosystems of England. Therefore, the bank may not necessarily select the four most popular species. The opinions will be evaluated by Governor Andrew Bailey."
Currently, British banknotes feature Winston Churchill (1874-1965), Jane Austen (1775-1817), William Turner (1775-1851), and Alan Turing (1912-1954). The bank will announce its final decision by the end of the year. The development of new banknotes may take years, but future notes will still include the reigning monarch's portrait.
