Post Offices (Closure)

HC Deb 04 December 1984 vol 69 cc120-1W

Ms. Harman

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what guidance he has issued to the Post Office on the subject of the post office closures in line with the requirements of section 59(2) of the British Telecommunications Act 1981 to have regard to the industrial, commercial and, in particular, the social needs of the United Kingdom in the provision of postal services.

Mr. Pattie

It would be unnecessary and inappropriate to issue such guidance to the Post Office. The duty imposed on the Post Office by section 59(2) of the British Telecommunications Act 1981 is a statutory one of which the Post Office needs no reminder.

Mr. Craigen

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what discussions he has had with the Post Office Users Council concerning the social aspect of the current closure programmes of a percentage of sub-post offices.

Mr. Pattie

I have had no discussions with the Post Office Users' National Council on the Post Office's proposals to reduce the number of post offices in urban areas. However, I am aware of the council's views about the proposals, and that the Post Office has consulted the council fully about the proposals.

Mr. Golding

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will give a general direction to the Post Office under section 62 of the British Telecommunications Act 1981, to refrain from its major programme of closing Crown and sub-post offices in view of its obligations under section 59(2)(b) of the Act; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Pattie

[pursuant to the reply, 24 November, c. 551]: No. My powers under section 11(1A) of the Post Office Act 1969 to give the Post Office directions of a general character as to the exercise of its powers are exercisable only when it appears to me to be "requisite in the national interest". I am not satisfied that it would be so requisite in the present instance. Indeed, I am satisfied that the Post Office's proposals to reduce the number of post offices in urban areas are consistent with the duty of the Post Office laid down by section 59(2) of the British Telecommunications Act 1981.