§ Mr. DrewTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if she will make a statement on the help she provides to sustain small rural sub-post offices. [1677]
§ Mr. Alexander[holding answer 3 July 2001]: We are committed to contributing towards the costs of universal banking services, which will be available at all post offices, and to providing transitional financial assistance to rural post offices. Decisions on the provision of this assistance will be taken in the context of advice from the Postal Services Commission expected in the autumn. In addition, we have announced a £2 million fund to support volunteer and community initiatives to maintain or reopen post office facilities in rural areas where the traditional post office would otherwise close. Sub-post offices in small rural settlements are eligible for rate relief.