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Sun, 15 Mar 2026

Sun, 15 Mar 2026 Banknotes, beavers and a very British backlash

Politicians are furious Churchill will be replaced on banknotes. The RSPCA wants rats and pigeons to feature.
The Bank of England has announced that it will replace portraits of historical figures, including Winston Churchill and Jane Austen, with images of British wildlife on its next series of banknotes. The move was prompted by a public consultation in which 60% of respondents chose "nature" as their preferred theme. While some politicians have criticized the decision, calling it "silly" and "absolutely crackers", others have defended it as an anti-counterfeiting measure that allows for more innovative security features. The RSPCA has even suggested featuring pigeons, rats, and gulls on the new notes, citing their intelligence and contributions to British history. A panel of experts will now draw up a wildlife shortlist, which will be put to the public this summer before the Bank's governor makes a final decision.