BANK CLOSURES IN CAITHNESS, SUTHERLAND AND EASTER ROSS

That this House notes with regret the decision of the Bank of Scotland to close its branches in Bonar Bridge, Dornoch, Helmsdale and Lairg; recognises that the decision follows the closures of branches by the Royal Bank of Scotland and Clydesdale Bank and expresses dismay that those closures will require people and businesses to undertake round trip journeys of up to 110 miles to access their closest bank branch; acknowledges significant local and national concern at the effect those closures will have on small and rural communities, and on businesses and individuals, particularly older people, those with disabilities and those that do not have access to the internet or other connectivity solutions; and requests the Government to review the model of banking regulation in the UK and to introduce a focus on customer service to require local banking service provision that will promote and sustain local economies.