A “steady move away” from cash
The topic recently became a point of conversation and the subject of a proposition, after an islander with autism was prevented from going swimming at Les Quennevais Sports Centre after trying to pay with cash in December, following the introduction of the cashless policy in 2020.
Campaign groups such as the local ‘Cash is King’ movement have also seen a rise in popularity among those against the transition to a cashless society.
In his letter to the Economic and International Affairs scrutiny panel, Deputy Morel said Jersey has seen “a steady move away from the use of cash in recent years”.
Pictured: Economic Development Kirsten Morel told scrutiny there had been “a steady move away from the use of cash in recent years”.
He wrote: “The Department for Economy does not have a policy position in respect of cash payments and individual businesses are free to accept transactions in the manner that best suits them.”
He continued: “Anecdotally we are aware of examples, particularly in hospitality, travel and retail, in Jersey where either cash or card payments are refused.
“The consumer ultimately wants choice and flexibility, especially during periods where budgeting is more challenging.”
“No plans” for legislation on cash use
Deputy Morel added that there are “currently no plans for legislation on the use of cash”, but that “some restrictions (such as total limits) are in place via the island’s anti-money laundering legislation”.
The Economic Development Minister also included a table showing the calls and repayments of Jersey notes by local banks, which may then be held either within their local stocks or issued by them to meet public demand.
Pictured: The amount of Jersey notes ordered and returned by local banks each year.
Jersey notes are printed at the secure facilities of Basingstoke-based company De La Rue, the supplier of notes to the Bank of England.
Deputy Morel added: “The large offsetting nature of the transactions often reflects banks replacing old notes, which are often subsequently destroyed, for new.
“I hope the above information provides clarity to the areas you have raised and look forward to working with the panel as it investigates this important area.”
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