TSB Closures in Midlothian

That this House condemns TSB Bank’s decision to close its Dalkeith and Penicuik branches; recognises that this follows a long succession of bank closures in Midlothian; notes that there are no alternative TSB branches nearby to serve the busy communities of Dalkeith and Penicuik, and that the Post Office cannot be expected to pick up the pieces; further notes that, although Midlothian is Scotland’s fastest growing region, many customers will now have to travel to Musselburgh or Cameron Toll in Edinburgh for their banking; recognises that there remains a strong need for choice between face to face and other forms of banking, and for cash and counter transactions; and calls on banks to work to do everything they can to make it easier for their local customers to access their services and not close the doors permanently during a time of crisis during which many businesses are already struggling.