Monday 28th April 2008

Massive Local Opposition to Post Office Closure Programme

Angus MP Mike Weir has disclosed “overwhelming ” local opposition to the current Post Office closure programme.

Mr Weir has been carrying out a survey of local opinion  ahead of the publication of the local plan for Angus at the end of May. Commenting on the initial results Mr Weir said there was clearly minimal support for the UK government’s programme.

“Of the responses I have received so far over 98% oppose the UK government plans. It is striking that this figure has been consistent across all areas of Angus.

Mr Weir has calling on local people to consider the impact of closures prior to the publication of the local plan as he feels that the six week public consultation period is far too short.

“The responses so far also indicate that a very large number of local residents rely on their local post office for posting items and for advice on posting. This is vitally important since the changes brought about by the post office is charging according to size mean many people require advice. I have serious reservations as to how this will work if more local post offices are closed down.”

“There are also very serious concerns that if the post office goes it will affect the future of shops attached to them.”

“The survey also disclosed that there will be serious knock on effects on other areas of policy since, for example, a large number of people thought they would have to use their cars more to access services. Clearly that goes against the UK government’s stated policies on climate change.”

“This is one more example of the lack of joined up thinking from the UK government on the whole issue of the future of the Post Office.”   

Mr Weir added that his survey had suggested that many more people would like to use services like taxation of motor cars which could no longer be done at smaller post offices.

“The Post Office is seeking to move into areas such as mortgages and insurance, but these are highly unlikely to have much impact on small sub post offices. If they were to look at ways to extending services like motor vehicle licensing this is more likely to work.”

Mr Weir reiterated his call for the current programme to be suspended.

“The current programme works on a straightforward quota of post offices, 18% in North East Scotland must close. The consultation period is far too short and the system pits communities against each other. This is completely unacceptable and has no public support.”