Badgers & Otters to Grace UK Banknotes Over Humans

The Bank of England is transitioning its banknotes from featuring historical figures to showcasing native British wildlife. This significant change, intended to celebrate the UK's diverse natural environment, will see iconic animals like otters and badgers potentially appearing on currency. The decision stems from a public consultation where 'nature' was overwhelmingly chosen as the preferred theme over architecture or notable historical figures.

However, the shift has drawn sharp criticism from some quarters. Former business minister Kevin Holinrake described the replacement of figures like Winston Churchill and Jane Austen with animals as 'total bonkers.' Similarly, Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg commented that 'twee little furry things do neither' in symbolizing power and value on currency. The Bank, however, maintains that wildlife imagery offers unique opportunities for security features and avoids divisive historical associations.

This initiative marks a departure from tradition, which began with William Shakespeare on banknotes in 1970. The current series includes Churchill, Austen, JMW Turner, and Alan Turing. Previously, banknote designs faced controversy over gender representation and historical links to the slave trade. The Bank will soon launch a public consultation to select from a shortlist of animals compiled by wildlife experts, with other elements of nature also considered for the final design.