FREE ACCESS TO CASH MACHINES

Early day motion 282, tabled 17 January 2000 by Lord Chidgey (Liberal Democrat). Signed by 124 members.

That this House congratulates those financial institutions which are continuing to offer free access to cash machines; expresses concern that the LINK cash machine network is considering the introduction of a surcharge of ú1 per withdrawal from cash machines when cash machine providers already receive a LINK interchange fee; notes the crucial role played by the free cash machines in promoting financial inclusion in deprived and in rural areas; and therefore urges all financial institutions not to adopt surcharging, due to the adverse effect this will have on the consumer in general and particularly those on low incomes and those living in areas with limited cash machine coverage.

Signatures by party: Labour 70, Liberal Democrat 34, Labour/Co-operative 10, Conservative 4, Plaid Cymru 3, UUP 2, Scottish National Party 1.