REDUCTION IN BANK AND POST OFFICE BRANCH NETWORK

That this House notes the reduction in the post office branch network over the last decade; further notes the parallel constriction of the retail bank network, with further closures pending as the banks seek a return to profitability; further notes the irony of state-supported banking companies closing their branches, for instance in Westbury on Trym, Bristol, and directing customers to the local post office; and therefore requests the Department of Business, Innovation and Skills to undertake a review of customer service standards at the remaining post office branches.