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Attending the inaugural exhibition organised by the Hong Kong Monetary Authority to promote the Hong Kong $10 polymer note, the Financial Secretary, Mr Henry Tang said today (June 15) that the preparatory work for the launch of the new note has been largely completed and the notes will be gradually put into circulation starting from July 9.
"Experience in countries that have introduced polymer notes suggests that they are cleaner, more durable and more secure. They are also more environmentally friendly, since they last longer and can be recycled for other uses. As a vibrant international city, I believe it is essential for Hong Kong to explore this alternative technology," Mr Tang said.
Accompanied by student ambassadors, Mr Tang visited shops at the Lei Yue Mun Plaza, where the authority exhibition was held, to introduce the security features and special characteristics of the new note. Today's exhibition is part of the publicity campaign launched by the Monetary Authority to raise public awareness of the security features and handling characteristics of the Hong Kong $10 polymer note.
In the coming weeks, student ambassadors will continue with the out-reach programme to promote the polymer note to the community. They will visit major shopping centres in the territory to distribute leaflets, and man exhibition booths in various public housing estates.
The $10 polymer notes will be gradually available for exchange in bank branches starting from July 9. The Monetary Authority will carry out an evaluation of the performance and acceptability of the note in the next two years.
People are welcome to give comment via email (polymer_note@hkma.gov.hk).
For further enquiries please contact:
Sara Yip, Manager (Press), at 2878 8246 or
Peggy Lo, Manager (Press), at 2878 1687
Ends/Friday, June 15, 2007
Issued at HKT 16:31
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