5-11-02
Barrett defends local Post Offices in Commons Debate
John Barrett, Member of Parliament for
Edinburgh West, today sought to save the future of post offices
in Edinburgh, during a Liberal Democrat initiated parliamentary
debate.
It follows the success of his local petition campaign in which
so far, over 6,000 of his constituents have added their names.
In a statement, John Barrett MP said:
"The Government's plans to close over 3,000 post offices
are nothing short of scandalous. Even Postwatch, the postal
sector watchdog, has said so many closures are unacceptable.
"Despite a similar debate a few weeks ago, the Government
have left many questions unanswered.
"How do the Government intend to make up the massive
loss in income in post offices, arising from their decision
to pay benefits and pensions into peoples bank accounts? Why
have they decided to shelve the Your Guide scheme which offered
a real chance to increase the numbers of post office customers?
How to they expect to replace retiring postmasters and mistresses
when there is such financial uncertainty in the industry?
"Clearly, the Government have not properly thought through
their post office programme and unfortunately, it will be
the people throughout Edinburgh who depend on the services
provided by the post office who will suffer."
ENDS