HC Deb 01 March 2002 vol 380 c1580W
Brian Cotter

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how many post offices are undergoing a consultation process for considered closure in connection with Postwatch, broken down by county. [35544]

Mr. Alexander

73 post offices are currently undergoing consultation with Postwatch under the procedures of the Code of Practice for Post Office branch relocation, closure and conversion. The figures on a country basis are:

  • England 63
  • Wales 8
  • Scotland 2
  • Northern Ireland 0

Figures are not available on a county basis.

I understand from Post Office Ltd that the majority of these consultations concern outlets in rural areas where the subpostmaster has resigned and there are no applicants for the vacancy. The Code of Practice requires seeking alternative ways of continuing provision of post office services.