[GiRTh]

Banks would welcome it but its unlikely to happen. Certain transaction, for one reason or another cannot be done without cash. I'm talking illegal transactions in case anyone doesnt get it. Not many drug dealers take paypal.

Banks have been trying to get to a cashless society for decades. I doubt they'll ever get there. There will always be the demand for some cash transactions.

When I worked in banks the small transactions costing was set at just under 10 pounds so I would image that has increased now so its no surprise some shops still charge for small card transactions. I dont ever see that dying out as the shop has to incur that extra bank charge.

On another note - I've one heard a Director at a medium sized building society admit that banks would do away with cheque accounts and small transactions but cannot due to the obvious public outcry that would cause. I wouldnt be surprised if they are ultimately moving toward a cashless system where transactions are only processed if they reach a certain amount.