G. F. 323
3.
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The membership of the Committee changed twice during the course of the review. On 8th February, 1974, Mr. J.I. Mutch, the new Principal Assistant Economic Secretary, was nominated by the Financial Secretary as his representative on the Committee in place
However, in view of Mr. Ockenden 's wide
of Mr. A.D. Ockenden.
experience in coinage matters, it was agreed that he should continue to be a member of the Committee. On 12th February, 1974, Mr. M.D. Sargant proceeded on vacation leave and was replaced by Mrs. F. Hsiung, Assistant Director, Commerce and Industry Department.
Co-opted Members
4.
The undermentioned persons attended Committee meetings
on the dates detailed below.
Mr. J.B. Pickford, Engineer (General
Duties), E. & M. Office, P.W.D.
Mr. KWOK Sen, Officer i/c Parking
14th Dec. 1973
Meter Section, E. & M. Office, P.W.D. 14th Dec. 1973
Mr. A.K. Chui, Principal Assistant
Colonial Secretary
Background to the Committee's Appointment
5.
21st Dec. 1973
There have been a number of suggestions in the past for issuing new denominations of coin - 20 cent, 25 cent and $5 have been mentioned but, because of comparative sizes, weights and shapes of existing coins, it has been found difficult to introduce one new denomination in isolation. However, recent trends, as amplified below, have been such that it was considered that a comprehensive review of
the coinage would be worthwhile.
6.
First, the number of coins in circulation has risen
dramatically over the last four years. The maximum circulation figure*, i.e. at Chinese New Year, for 1970 - 71 was 595 million but by 1973 - 74 this had risen to 761 million, an increase of 28%. It is likely that the demand for coins, in terms of n-minal value, will continue to increase in the foreseeable future, and if the range of denominations were left unchanged this would result in a further increase in the number of coins
in circulation.
* These figures exclude stocks held by the Government and at the Head Office of The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation.
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