VILLAGE BANKING AND THE POST OFFICE

Early day motion 203, tabled 19 January 1999 by Lord Chidgey (Liberal Democrat). Signed by 43 members.

That this House is concerned at the widespread closure by the clearing banks of their branches in rural and deprived areas; notes that studies reveal that one in five people are already excluded from holding bank accounts and are denied access to financial services; and calls upon the Government to prompt Post Office Counters Limited and the major banks to accelerate negotiations for the Post Office to act as agents for over-the-counter banking service, particularly in areas where bank branches face closure.

Signatures by party: Liberal Democrat 20, Labour 19, Labour/Co-operative 3, Conservative 1.