§ Mr. AlexanderTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what steps are being taken to improve postal services in Scotland; and if he will make a statement. [153579]
§ Mr. FoulkesThe Horizon project to computerise all post office systems is nearing completion. This will mean that all customers, regardless of location, will now have access to the same high technology and top quality service. Ring fenced support has been allocated over the next three years to implement recommendations in the Performance and Innovation Unit report on modernisation of the Post Office network.
The Government fully recognise the pivotal role which the Post Office plays in communities across Scotland. A new £2 million UK wide fund, which is available for the 2001–02 financial year to support initiatives to maintain or re-open post office facilities in areas where the traditional post office is closing, will help to strengthen the rural post office network in Scotland. All of these initiatives will ensure that we can build a post office network which goes from strength to strength.