Keetch "deeply concerned" over further Post Office closures

12.42.54pm GMT Tue 11th Mar 2003

Hereford's local Liberal Democrat MP Paul Keetch has been told that two more Sub Post Offices in Hereford are set to be permanently closed by the Post Office.

Stanhope Street branch in Whitecross and the Eign Road branch have both been identified as sites for potential closure. Recently the Eign Gate Post Office closed and Hereford City's two main Post Offices were merged into one.

'I am deeply concerned about these closures', said Mr Keetch.

'Both branches serve communities with a large proportion of elderly people and significant numbers of young mothers drawing family allowance. I also know that many sub Post masters feel let down by years of under investment by the Post Office.

'I and other Liberal Democrat MP's have been warning for months that Government interference in the Post Office's business will lead to such closures. It seems that the people of Hereford will have to pay the price for such meddling.

'There will now be a one-month consultation procedure before the closures are confirmed.

'I have spoken to councillors representing the wards concerned who I know will be worried about these proposed moves,' continued Mr Keetch.

'I can understand why some Post masters may wish to retire but we need to consider the wider implications for the community. The Post Office should examine in all cases if local alternatives could be set up.'