asked the Minister for Finance the number of shilling coins at present held by the Central Bank; if having regard to the continuing shortage of such coins in public circulation, he will arrange for their immediate release; and how soon additional supplies of those coins recently ordered to be minted will be supplied and put into general circulation.
Written Answers. - Supply of Shilling Coins.
17.
It is not the practice to disclose the stocks of coins or notes held by the Central Bank at any particular time. I can say, however, that the reduction in the bank's stocks of shilling coins which had been caused by the exceptionally heavy demand early this year has been made good by additional supplies obtained in mid-April. Since then all demands have been met in full and I am informed by the bank that their stocks are adequate to meet future requirements. The total number of shilling and five new penny coins in circulation is 36.9 million, as compared with 32.6 million on 1st January last.