Keetch fights Post Office closure
April 25, 2006 4:25 PM
Due to an unprecedented number of letters about the planned closure of the Post Office Card Accounts, Paul Keetch MP has signed a parliamentary motion expressing concern about the forthcoming termination of the service. More than 4.5 million people use the account, which allows pensioners to have their pensions paid direct. The Department for Work and Pensions withdrawal of support for the account has come as a shocking blow.
West Midlands Liberal Democrats MP, Paul Keetch, is unimpressed with news of the decision by the Department for Work and Pensions to terminate funding for the account beyond 2010.
"The way that the Department of Work and Pensions is treating our pensioners is disgraceful," said Mr Keetch. "They did not initially explain that the account was temporary and have not been clear with anyone about its future. Many pensioners do not have access to another bank account and are wary of high street banks. The Post Office is an institution much loved and trusted by the community."
"The removal of the Post Office Card Account is likely to have a detrimental effect on Herefordshire pensioners. Many of my constituents already suffer from financial exclusion, particularly in rural communities, if the withdrawal of this service is implemented, many more are bound to suffer.
"The Post Office is a vital service to residents in both rural and urban communities. This Labour Government has continuously shut down post offices cutting the life blood from villages, particularly in this county. The withdrawal of the account can only strike another blow to the post office network." Mr Keetch added.
ENDS
Full text of EDM 1919
That this House notes with concern that Citigroup, who operated the Post Office Card Account on behalf of the Post Office, indicated that they transferred the business to an alternative provider on 6th March before holders of such accounts were informed of the intention to do so; believes that such action further undermines confidence in the Post Office Card Account, coming after the revelation that the Department of Work and Pensions intends to remove support from the account in 2010; further believes that the Post Office Card Account is an important vehicle for many people, many of whom do not have access to a bank, and that its end will increase financial exclusion; and calls upon the Government urgently to review its policy on the account and on the Department of Work and Pensions to reverse its stance.
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