English
Churchill Removed from UK Banknotes: Wildlife to Replace Historical Figures
The Bank of England has announced a historic redesign of British currency that will see Winston Churchill and other prominent historical figures replaced by native wildlife on all banknotes, marking the most significant change to UK currency design in over 50 years. The decision, announced on March 11, 2026, follows a public consultation where 60% of 44,000 respondents supported featuring British nature over historical figures, which received only 38% support.
What is Changing on British Banknotes?
The Bank of England will completely redesign the reverse side of all denominations (£5, £10, £20, and £50 notes) to feature British wildlife instead of historical figures. Winston Churchill, who has appeared on the £5 note since 2016, will be removed along with Jane Austen (£10), J.M.W. Turner (£20), and Alan Turing (£50). King Charles III's portrait will remain on the front of all notes, maintaining the monarch's traditional place on British currency.
This represents a fundamental shift from a tradition that began in 1971 when the Duke of Wellington first appeared on banknotes. The British currency redesign follows similar moves by other central banks worldwide to update security features and aesthetics.
Why is the Bank of England Making This Change?
The Bank of England cites several reasons for this dramatic redesign:
- Public Preference: In the 2025 consultation, wildlife received 60% support, architecture/landmarks 56%, and historical figures only 38%
- Enhanced Security: Wildlife imagery provides better opportunities for advanced anti-counterfeiting technology
- National Unity: Nature is seen as less divisive than historical figures who can be controversial
- Modernization: The change reflects evolving national identity and priorities
'The Bank of England has the full right to decide who appears on its banknotes,' said Emma Soames, Churchill's granddaughter, in a BBC Newsnight interview. 'My family never assumed the tribute would be permanent.'
Timeline for the New Banknotes
The redesign process will unfold over several years:
- Summer 2026: Second public consultation to select specific wildlife species
- 2026-2027: Design and security feature development
- 2028-2029: Testing and production
- 2030: Expected issuance of new wildlife-themed notes
Political Controversy and Reactions
The announcement has sparked significant political debate across the UK. Reform UK leader Nigel Farage called the decision 'woke and doorgedraaide politieke correctheid' (woke and over-the-top political correctness), while Conservative opposition leader Kemi Badenoch described it as 'a stupid plan' that erases history.
However, supporters argue that the change reflects modern Britain and addresses previous criticisms about representation. Before this redesign, only one woman (Jane Austen) and no people of color had ever appeared on Bank of England notes, unlike the EU cultural heritage policies that emphasize broader representation.
Emma Soames offered a balanced perspective: 'It should be a brave animal, courageous. And, based on how I knew him, very lovable.' When asked about a badger replacing Churchill, she responded: 'lucky badger - or lucky grandpa.'
What Wildlife Might Appear on New Banknotes?
A panel of wildlife experts including filmmakers Gordon Buchanan, Miranda Krestovnikoff, and naturalist Nadeem Perera will create a shortlist of native species for public voting. Potential candidates include:
| Animal | Habitat | Symbolism |
|---|---|---|
| Badger | Woodlands, countryside | Resilience, determination |
| Red Squirrel | Forests, parks | British heritage, conservation |
| Otter | Rivers, coasts | Playfulness, adaptability |
| Hedgehog | Gardens, hedgerows | British gardens, vulnerability |
The Bank has explicitly stated that domestic pets will not be considered, focusing instead on native wildlife that represents all UK home nations.
Impact on British Culture and Identity
This redesign represents more than just aesthetic change—it signals a shift in how Britain presents itself to the world. The move from celebrating historical achievement to showcasing natural heritage reflects changing priorities in a nation grappling with its past while looking toward its future. Similar to how national monument controversies have sparked debates worldwide, this currency change touches on questions of national identity and historical memory.
The change also comes as cash usage in the UK has dramatically declined from 48% of payments in 2014 to just 9% by 2024, making banknotes increasingly symbolic rather than purely functional.
FAQ: Churchill Banknote Removal Explained
When will Churchill be removed from banknotes?
Winston Churchill will remain on the £5 note until the new wildlife-themed notes are issued, expected around 2030. The current polymer notes will remain legal tender even after new designs are introduced.
Will other historical figures also be removed?
Yes, Jane Austen (£10), J.M.W. Turner (£20), and Alan Turing (£50) will all be replaced by wildlife imagery in the comprehensive redesign.
Why choose wildlife over historical figures?
The Bank of England states that wildlife is less divisive, better for security features, and more representative of modern Britain based on public consultation results.
Will King Charles remain on banknotes?
Yes, the monarch's portrait will continue to appear on the front of all Bank of England notes, maintaining this centuries-old tradition.
Can the public influence which animals are chosen?
Yes, a second public consultation in summer 2026 will allow people to vote on specific wildlife species from a shortlist created by expert panels.
Sources
Bank of England Official Announcement
BBC Interview with Emma Soames
Independent Analysis of Banknote Changes
Reuters Coverage of Wildlife Banknotes
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