§ Mr. Barry JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what recent discussions he has had with the First Secretary concerning the future of sub post offices in Wales; and if he will make a statement. [111796]
§ Mr. Paul MurphyI have regular discussions with the First Secretary and colleagues in Whitehall to discuss a range of issues that affect Wales. Postal services have not been devolved to the National Assembly for Wales and are matters for my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry. My officials have also had a number of discussions with their counterparts on the Government's proposals to move to an automated credit transfer system that will assure a safer, modern and efficient way of paying benefits, which is a matter for my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Social Security.
In addition, the Prime Minister announced on 21 October 1999 that the Performance and Innovation Unit (PIU) in the Cabinet Office is to carry out a study on the post office network which will seek to identify the contribution made by post offices to the viability of local communities. Close independent monitoring of the post office network will ensure that proposed closures which would create significant problems of access to post office counter 41W services, including in rural areas, are taken up with the Post Office, which will then be able to investigate how access needs can best be met.