§ 36. Mr. BaldryTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will make a statement on progress towards the establishment of a universal bank. [144564]
§ Mr. ByersGood progress is being made with the development of universal banking services. Agreement in principle was reached on 20 December 2000 with six banks, Barclays, Lloyds TSB Ltd, RBS/Nat West, HSBC, Abbey National and the Halifax, to contribute towards universal banking Services at the Post Office. Discussions continue with other banks and building societies to examine what contributions they can make.