Conservatives Call for Suspension of Post Office Closures

Posted on Monday, 17th March 2008

The motion will highlight many concerns of local residents, including how the cuts will affect the elderly and disabled and the way the consultation process has worked.

The Government’s ‘access criteria’, which has been held responsible by many for recommending the closure of profitable and popular Post Offices, will also be highlighted.

Commenting, Alan Duncan, Shadow Secretary for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform, said:

“We understand the widespread public dismay about the plans to close 2,500 post offices, particularly as the ones to be closed seem to be chosen for their geography rather than their viability.

Where the Conservatives are in control, such as in Essex, we are actively putting in money to save rural Post Offices.

Ben Wallace MP

“Across the country, MPs have been campaigning to highlight the failings of the closure plans and the consultation process. We think it is right that, in the light of all the complaints and concerns, Parliament should now call a halt to the process.”

Local MP, Ben Wallace, has praised Essex County Council in their efforts to save rural Post Offices. Discussing the loss of four of Lancaster’s Post Offices, Mr Wallace said:

“I am glad that my Party is not just talking about this issue, but is leading the way in keeping our Post Offices open. Where the Conservatives are in control, such as in Essex, we are actively putting in money to save rural Post Offices.

“Labour MPs who have protested against Gordon Brown’s Post Office cuts should put their votes where their mouths have been and support our calls for a suspension to the closures.

“These cuts can be reversed, but it needs MPs of all parties to listen to their constituents.”

Eric Ollerenshaw added “It would be nice if Labour’s Lancashire County Council could for once take a lead from Conservative-run Essex and do something practical to help.”

Add Comment |