Carmichael welcomes government protection of Post Office network

Orkney and Shetland MP, Alistair Carmichael, has welcomed the government’s announcement today that existing protections for the scope and coverage of the Post Office network will be maintained and expanded.

Ministers announced today that the Post Office will maintain the geographical Access Criteria to ensure essential services remain accessible to all, including vulnerable groups and services for rural and island communities, and will retain the existing minimum requirement of 11,500 branches. A new commitment has also been introduced that over half of all branches must be full-time and full-service.

Over £480 million has been committed by the government to “transform the Post Office into a modern, efficient business while preserving its vital role in communities”.

Mr Carmichael said:

“I have not been shy about criticising Post Office management in recent years, whether over the Horizon scandal or mishandling of changes to services – so it is a pleasure to be able to reflect on some positive news for the service today. Protection of the post office network – and particularly rules maintaining rural and island post offices – represents a positive step for our communities.

“I am glad, too, that ministers appear finally to be recognising that post offices can play a vital role as a hub for services in the community. What we need is more joined-up thinking on this point from the government going forward, so that we ensure services stay with the Post Office and that these hubs are as useful as possible for local people and the community as a whole.”