Christopher Fraser, MP for South West Norfolk, has slammed the Government’s confirmation that it will press ahead with the closure of some 2,500 post offices, following the recent consultation exercise.
Christopher Fraser said: “Given the weight of public opinion that the post office network is a vital community amenity, particularly in rural areas, it seems extraordinary that the Government is pressing ahead with the programme of closures.
“I have particular sympathy with rural subpostmasters who, despite a highly effective campaign and a detailed consultation exercise, still do not know where the axe will fall. I raised my concerns in the House of Commons recently, when I told the Government that subpostmasters in South West Norfolk were finding it extremely hard to do business in the current climate of uncertainty. Today’s statement will serve only to make matters worse for those who have invested huge amounts of time and effort serving the community.
“It seems to me that the Government’s policy of deciding closures on so-called access criteria means that even successful Post Offices may close just because of their geography. Successful sub-Post Masters who have spent years building up their business will now be forced to close by this Government.
“The Government promised to listen. Instead, it has failed to give sub-postmasters the freedom they need to expand their business, and failed to give elderly and disadvantaged people in rural communities the security of knowing that their post office will remain open. It is a disgrace.”
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