§ Michael FabricantTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if she will make a statement on the proposed closure of the post office at 69–71 City Way, Rochester, Kent. [143561]
§ Mr. Timms[holding answer 17 December 2003]Decisions on post office closures and relocations are an operational matter for Post Office Ltd. In accordance with the Code of Practice on Post Office Closures and Relocations—agreed between Post Office Ltd. and Postwatch, the consumer watchdog for postal services—the company enters into consultation on all proposed closures.
1049WPostwatch are consulted on every post office closure proposal before a decision is made and there is every opportunity for those affected by a proposal, and the local MP, to make representations to the company or to Postwatch.