Total votes
5-11 votes
11-16+ votes
The Bank of England recently announced the results of a public consultation about what should feature on their new series of banknotes. Over 44,000 members of the public contributed, with the majority (60%) selecting British wildlife as their preferred theme. Wildlife charities have welcomed the decision, with the RSPCA saying it is a “wonderful way to celebrate the animals that we share our towns, cities and countryside with”. But it is not without its critics. Some MPs have spoken out against the change, particularly the removal of Sir Winston Churchill. Conservative leader, Kemi Badenoch, said that it is “removing our history”. We wanted to know what young people thought about this change and with which side of the debate they felt most aligned. Do they see it as an opportunity to celebrate a new part of British culture, or as an erosion of our past?
Primary 7-11, Secondary, 16+ & College voters discussed, “Should there be pictures of animals on UK banknotes?”, while Primary 5-7 voters were asked, “Would you like to see pictures of wildlife on UK banknotes?"
54,304 young people in the UK have taken part in this vote.
Some species are almost wiped out and so it would make people realise how important our wildlife is.
We don't really mind what is on the money - who even notices... Money is money.
I feel like it would be nice to see more wildlife on money as it will make the United Kingdom seem greener and it’s a step towards a cleaner future.
Thank you to Jen Davis from the The Wildlife Trusts for responding to young people's voices on this VoteTopic!
"A massive thank you for voting on whether there should be wildlife on UK banknotes, all 54,304 of you! Your feedback is an important indicator of what young people think and feel about nature, and the work we at The Wildlife Trusts must keep doing to make sure everyone feels welcome and safe in nature, and can experience the benefits it brings to everyone’s health and happiness. We’re listening to your voices, to make sure nature and wildlife can be a meaningful part of your lives, and is a central part of a diverse, modern society."
