Sajid Javid 'planning millions of 50p Brexit coins' for 31 October
2 min read
Sajid Javid is planning to unleash millions of special 50p Brexit coins on the British public in time for 31 October, it has been reported.
The Sunday Telegraph reports that the Chancellor has asked officials to look at whether a fresh batch of the seven-sided coins can be prepared in time for Britain's planned EU departure date on Hallowe'en.
The move comes after previous Treasury plans for around 10,000 commemorative collectors' coins, priced at £10 each, were ditched when Britain failed to leave the EU on 29 March.
According to the paper, the new coins will be marked with the words 'Friendship with all nations', along with the new Brexit date of 31 October.
The Chancellor has reportedly asked officials to examine whether the coins can be put into general circulation in time for the UK's EU departure, with a source telling the Sunday Telegraph that the aim was to ensure "everyone gets a coin".
The planned move has already been welcomed by Conservative MP Craig Mackinlay, who said: "Our joining the then EEC was commemorated with millions of 50p coins minted for general circulation.
"I am really pleased to see that the Chancellor of the Exchequer has announced that our departure from the EU should similarly be marked with a general circulation coin."
He added: "This is a time for national celebration that our independence and new global freedom is with us. Great news and a clear, positive indication of intent from the Prime Minister and his new government."
NO-DEAL REBUTTAL TEAM
Meanwhile the Sunday Telegraph also reports that Cabinet Office minister Michael Gove is set to launch a new "rapid rebuttal unit" to combat "media myths and half-truths" about the risks of a no-deal Brexit.
The move is designed to reassure the public and businesses over the impact of Britain leaving the bloc without an agreement, with individual departments asked to counter news stories that officials believe exaggerate the risks.
A source said: "It’s important that people prepare for no deal based on actual facts."
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