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Shkruar nga Pamfleti
There are many animals traditionally associated with the world of finance: greedy pigs, bear markets, and unicorn startups. However, a giant shark or a common frog are not usually among the images that come to mind when you think of money.
However, they are among 18 animal species that the Bank of England is considering for a new series of British banknotes. The British central bank is thus back at the center of public debate with its plan to replace historical figures with native wildlife on the United Kingdom's banknotes.
Starting today, the British public will have a month to have their say on which animal should become a national symbol, in the most literal sense of the word, taking centre stage on the £5, £10, £20 and £50 notes. This means that well-known figures such as Winston Churchill could be phased out of circulation.
Citizens will choose between familiar British icons such as the Atlantic puffin, a seabird with black-and-white feathers and a bright red beak; the red fox, one of the country's most widespread animals; or the kingfisher, known for its bright colors.
The list also includes less common candidates, such as the forest marten, a shy mammal that lives in old-growth forests; the white-tailed eagle, a large raptor that has been reintroduced into the wild through special programs and that often causes discontent among farmers; and the curlew, a marsh bird with a long, arched beak.
The Bank of England stressed that all of the animals selected are native species to the United Kingdom. The list was compiled by a panel of wildlife experts and is divided into three categories: mammals, birds and the group of amphibians, insects and fish.
However, this is unlikely to convince all critics. Reform UK party leader Nigel Farage accused the Bank of England in March of taking a “woke” approach, after it was suggested that Winston Churchill’s image on the £5 note could be replaced by a beaver.
No alien species and no pets
Although the beaver did not make the final list, the former British prime minister could be replaced by an invertebrate if the public chooses a butterfly or a bee. Churchill supporters will not have the opportunity to vote for the traditional British bulldog symbol. The bank also clarified that exotic species or domestic animals will not be accepted.
"Only the animals on the list published today can be used as central images in the new series of banknotes. We are not seeking other candidacies ," the institution stated.
In addition to Churchill, other historical figures currently appearing on banknotes, such as writer Jane Austen, painter JMW Turner and mathematician Alan Turing, may also gradually disappear from the banknotes.
The public has until July 3rd to vote, selecting up to two animals in each category. This process will result in a final list of four winners.
However, the final decision will not be up to voters. The final say will be with the Governor of the Bank of England, Andrew Bailey.
Bailey, who has been nicknamed the "sexy turtle" in the media, will have the deciding vote to ensure that each banknote has a distinct identity.
And since no reptiles are included in the competition, the common frog may have the advantage in this unusual competition to win a place in Britons' wallets.
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