Local post offices being undermined
October 8, 2002 12:00 AM
A government department has been accused of running a dirty tricks campaign that threatens the survival of many West Midlands post offices.
As many as five post offices in every West Midlands parliamentary constituency are said to be at risk of closure because of the government's decision to pay benefits into bank accounts from next April. Consignia has said that 3,000 will close nationally.
The National Federation of Sub Postmasters is trying to counter the threat by producing posters which point out to customers that they will still be able to claim their benefits in cash at post offices if they wish.
But West Midlands Euro-MP Liz Lynne has learnt that the Department of Work & Pensions is threatening legal action if the notices are displayed in local post offices.
The government department has issued instructions that all sub postmasters be informed that they 'must not display of hand out any unofficial posters or leaflets which relate to the change in the way pensions and benefits will be paid in the future'.
Now the Liberal Democrat MEP is demanding that Labour ministers give local post offices a fair deal.
Liz Lynne said: "Local post offices provide a valuable role in our communities and often serve as a vibrant focal point. The future of many is under threat, yet instead of helping them survive Labour ministers are tightening the screws."
"The Euro-MP backed up her concern by pointing to the fact that people wanting to have benefits paid into bank accounts can do so automatically, while those wanting a Post Office card account have to undergo a telephone interview."
"Everyone should be free to make their own choice about how their money should be paid, but let's have a level playing to give local post offices a fighting chance of survival," she said."
"You can support the Liberal Democrat campaign against post office closures by clicking here
What would you like to do next?
-
Subscribe for updates
Follow the party's activity on...
- Twitter:
- Liberal Democrats
- Facebook:
- Liberal Democrats
- YouTube:
- Liberal Democrats