There can be no doubt that our post office network is at risk. New figures show that the number of closures has nearly doubled. This trend will only accelerate if the Government switches benefits payments from post offices to claimants' bank accounts. That system would sound the death knell for countless branches. New Labour's determination to press ahead with this change demonstrates that its zeal for modernisation has blinded it to the needs of ordinary people.
Post offices provide a vital service to the communities they serve.
In rural areas, often already abandoned by banks, shops and pubs, they are an essential lifeline. The people who are campaigning against this misguided decision are not political agitators. Many are older people, worried about their pensions, and sub-postmasters and mistresses, the backbone of our society. Shocked by the uprising, ministers have made concessions. Extra subsidy for the network was announced today.