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Explained in plain English

How do I pay without cash or cards?

If electronic payments fail, options are very limited. Wes Streeting's advice highlights the importance of having physical cash. Without it, or working cards, you might struggle to buy essentials. Some local communities could try bartering or using IOUs, but these aren't reliable for widespread emergencies.

Stories that explain this

Wes Streeting urges Londoners to prepare for emergencies with essential home supplies

Questions this opens up

What is an IOU? Can I use foreign currency? What if shops close?

Related explainers

Do banks pay for cash deliveries? How do banks get cash? Could digital currency replace cash? Can I pay with my phone offline? Where does the UK keep emergency cash? What food is in the national reserve? What food should I store at home? What happens if ATMs stop working?

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