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Howard's Way.... a weekly column from the Rt. Hon. Michael Howard QC. MP. 

25 October 2007

Last week, together with Damian Collins, the Prospective Conservative Parliamentary Candidate for the Folkestone and Hythe Constituency, I met senior representatives of the Post office to discuss their proposals to close post offices in the constituency.

These plans have caused widespread consternation. The local post office can be a real focus for the community it serves. Its value, in social terms, goes far beyond the financial transactions which it hosts. This is particularly so for elderly people.

That is why the previous Government resisted all the proposals which were put to us to sanction a massive closure programme.

What has happened since is that a number of steps have been taken by Government which have acted as incentives to people to take their business away from their local post office. An example, which I have criticised before, is the bureaucracy which confronted those who wish to continue to have their pensions paid through their post office rather than into their bank account.

So it is not surprising that in some cases business has declined and post office losses have mounted.

What is to be done?

The Post Office has now embarked on a consultation exercise on their plans to embark on a massive national programme. In Shepway this would mean the closure of the post offices at Seabrook, Littlestone, Enbrook Valley and Shorncliffe as well as the continuing closure of Saltwood.

Anyone affected by these proposals should make their views known by writing to Gary Herbert, Network Development Manager, c/o National Consultation Team, FREEPOST CONSULTATION TEAM. The email address is consultation@postoffice.co.uk and the customer helpline is 03457 223344.

It would help me if you let me know as well. That will enable me to represent your views as vigorously and forcefully as I can.