POST OFFICE CLOSURES IN EDINBURGH

Early day motion 1848, tabled 1 November 2004 by John Barrett (Liberal Democrat). Signed by 21 members.

That this House condemns the announcement of 27th October by Post Office Ltd. to progress with 18 of the 21 Edinburgh post office closures put to public consultation over the summer; recognises that the futures of the three remaining branches at Saughtonhall, Stenhouse Cross and South Gyle are far from secure with the potential for these branches to also permanently close; believes all the announced closures will cause considerable difficulties for local communities across the City of Edinburgh and will particularly harm the many elderly and disabled residents who depend most on the services offered at these branches; criticises Post Office Ltd. for its complete failure to properly take account of the considerable evidence and overwhelming public opposition to its closure plans and to recognise the flawed basis on which its final decisions have been taken; further notes that Post Office Ltd. has failed to deny that some of the branches could close before the busy Christmas period; and therefore understands the immense disappointment, anger and betrayal which many people in the City of Edinburgh now feel.

Signatures by party: Liberal Democrat 10, Labour 6, DUP 3, Scottish National Party 2.