BANK CLOSURES IN AYR, CARRICK AND CUMNOCK

That this House notes with regret the decision of the Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS) to close its branches in Cumnock and Girvan; recognises that this decision follows the closure of RBS branches in Maybole and Dalmellington, the Bank of Scotland's closure in Maybole and the recent announcement by the Clydesdale Bank to close its Cumnock branch; acknowledges that those closures might lead to a situation where there are no banks left in the 50 miles between Ayr and Girvan or the 60 miles between Dumfries and Kilmarnock; is concerned about the effect those closures will have on small rural communities and local businesses; is troubled by the implications for the elderly, disabled people and those who do not have internet access; and urges RBS and other banks to reconsider those closures.