Britain is choosing the animals for its new banknotes: hedgehog, puffin and kingfisher in the final — decision by year end
The Bank of England is preparing the first complete change of banknote theme in decades: British wildlife will replace historical figures on the new notes. Over the summer the public voted on a shortlist of 18 candidates — from the hedgehog and the hare to the Atlantic puffin and the basking shark. The result is promised by the end of 2026. Here is who made the final, and what happens to the current notes.
Bank of England holds Bank Rate at 3.75% — three of nine voted to raise it to 4%
The decision came at noon on 17 September: Bank Rate stays at 3.75% for a fourth meeting in a row. The vote was 6–3, with three members backing a rise to 4%. Inflation hit 3.1% in August and the Bank warned it is "likely to rise further over coming quarters". Nothing changes today for trackers and SVRs, but if your fix ends this autumn, do not count on cheaper deals arriving by themselves. The next decision is 5 November, with new forecasts.
Bank Rate: the decision lands on 17 September, with inflation rising again
Bank Rate has stood at 3.75% since 30 July. Annual CPI inflation rose to 2.9% in July from 2.6% in June. The Monetary Policy Committee announces at noon on 17 September.
The Bank of England announces its rate decision on 17 September
Bank Rate has stood at 3.75% since the decision of 30 July. The next Monetary Policy Committee announcement is on 17 September.