HC Deb 15 March 1977 vol 928 cc141-2W
Mr. Madden

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what consultation takes place between the Post Office and his Department prior to decisions to close sub-post offices, particularly those who serve large numbers of retired people and others in receipt of short and long-term benefits.

Mr. Deakins

Although they are not formally required to consult my Department I understand that head postmasters normally consult such local bodies as are appropriate when a closure of a sub post office is under consideration.

Mr. Madden

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what obstacles exist to making agency arrangements to provide for the payment of retirement benefit in the vicinity of sub-post offices which are closed.

Mr. Deakins

A pensioner who is inconvenienced by the closure of a sub-post office may nominate an agent to draw his pension for him with a minimum of formality, or he may elect to be paid four-weekly or quarterly by cheque. As there is no restriction on the choice of agent these alternatives normally prove satisfactory. If my hon. Friend has a particular case of difficulty in mind I would be pleased to investigate.