POST OFFICES IN RIBBLE VALLEY

That this House is dismayed by the proposed closure of post offices across East Lancashire; notes with deep concern that in Ribble Valley branches may close in the villages of Billington, Mellor Brook, Newton-in-Bowland, Samlesbury, Chipping, Bashall Eaves and Bolton-by-Bowland; believes that these post offices play a vital role in the social and economic well-being of rural villages, evidenced by the overwhelming local opposition to their closure; regrets that the elderly, young families and people on low incomes will be hardest hit; and calls on Post Office Ltd to listen to local residents and to reconsider its proposals.