The Bank of England’s announcement to redesign the £5, £10, and £20 banknotes with nature-themed images has sparked widespread controversy. Proposals suggest replacing familiar figures, such as Winston Churchill, with native British wildlife including bees, butterflies, and woodpeckers.
Currently, the £5 note features Winston Churchill, the £10 note depicts Jane Austen, and the £20 showcases artist J.M.W. Turner. These historical personalities have long been celebrated on currency, but the Bank of England’s latest initiative to highlight British wildlife has ignited criticism.
Kevin Hollinrake, Chairman of the Conservative Party, voiced strong opposition: “The woke brigade have got their hands on everything else, now they are coming for our currency. Churchill, Austen, and Turing earned their place in history. They earned their place on our money too. The Bank of England should think again.”
READ MORE: The Five Key Decision Makers Driving Birmingham City’s Transfer Strategy
READ MORE: The Aston Villa Strategy Team Driving Unai Emery’s Transfer Ambitions
The public has until July 3 to vote on their preferred nature-themed designs, with the final decision resting with Governor Andrew Bailey. A panel of wildlife experts developed a shortlist featuring native species representing different environments across the UK. The Bank emphasized that incorporating various animals will help make the banknotes more easily recognizable to the public.
In 2025, the Bank asked the public to select the theme for the new series of banknotes, and nature emerged as the most popular choice. The Bank stated, “Much of the feedback referred to images of animals that are native to the UK. This reflects how important wildlife is to the public. Animals are vital to our landscapes, ecosystems, and everyday lives. They have long inspired iconic works of art, music, and literature, and we are excited to showcase them on our next series of banknotes.”
As the July 3 deadline approaches, debate continues over balancing respect for historical figures with a desire to celebrate nature on Britain’s currency.