§ Mr. David NicholsonTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what representations he has had proposing changes in the law to enable rural post offices to provide banking services; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. MaplesI have not received any representations along the lines described. Post offices already provide banking services on art agency basis for Girobank. There are no plans at present to further extend the Post Office's powers in this area and the Government are reluctant to see any extension of the public sector, not least because of concern for fair competition.