Reliance on Cash Availability

That the Parliament understands that cash deposits and withdrawals are on course to exceed £3 billion in a month at UK Post Offices for the first time; acknowledges that this is believed to be because so many bank branches are being closed, despite customer demand; notes that the Post Office reported that it handled £2.99 billion of cash in September 2021, a higher amount than in any previous single month, handling £1.06 billion in business cash deposits, £1.2 billion in personal cash deposits and £685 million in cash withdrawals; further notes that Post Office branches reportedly had their busiest first week for cash in October; recognises a recent Post Office survey, which found that 44% of small hospitality and leisure businesses rely on cash, and considers that cash availability is essential for communities, for local economies and especially for individuals on limited incomes.