Commons Sense

House of Commons · Adjournment Debate

Banking Hubs

20 May 2026 · 1 other contributor

Opened by Graham Leadbitter SNP Moray West, Nairn and Strathspey

EconomyBusiness & Trade

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Graham Leadbitter raised concerns about banking hubs in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

Key points

  • MP Graham Leadbitter noted the reduction of bank branches in his constituency from 22 to six over a decade.
  • The MP highlighted that vulnerable people and certain businesses depend on physical banking services.
  • Minister Rachel Blake acknowledged concerns and highlighted an independent review on access to banking services.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Graham Leadbitter SNP Moray West, Nairn and Strathspey

MP Graham Leadbitter highlighted the significant decline in bank branches in his constituency over the past decade, noting a reduction from 22 to just six branches. He stressed that vulnerable people and certain businesses heavily rely on physical banking services despite the rise of digital banking. The MP pointed out inconsistencies in the current criteria for banking hubs set by Link, which do not adequately address rural communities' needs. He cited specific towns like Lossiemouth, Grantown, Aviemore, and Nairn that have lost their banks due to these criteria. Leadbitter emphasised the importance of community bankers providing critical advice on savings, loans, mortgages, and business support services. He concluded by welcoming the Government’s independent access to cash review but urged for more rapid progress.

Other contributors (1)
  • Name

    The intervention points provided in the text are brief comments or agreements from other MPs, and they generally align with Leadbitter's concerns about banking hub criteria and their impact on communities. Specific details include support for digital alternatives but recognition of the importance of face-to-face services for vulnerable individuals and businesses.

Government Response

Rachel Blake

Minister Rachel Blake acknowledged the concerns raised by MP Graham Leadbitter and other MPs about access to banking services. She highlighted the work of her predecessor in introducing an independent review on access to banking services and the Financial Services and Markets Bill. The Minister expressed willingness to meet with Members regarding the review but noted that decision-making for bank closures remains a commercial matter for banks and building societies. Blake emphasised the Government's commitment to ensuring sufficient access to cash and banking services, particularly in rural areas like those mentioned by Leadbitter.

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