Post Office Closures 2024-12-12
2024-12-12
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
Concerns over potential post office closures and their effect on local communities, specifically mentioning Chester-le-Street.
What assessment has been made of the potential impact of Post Office closures on high streets? The post office in Chester-le-Street, North Durham, which has served the community since 1936, offers vital services to constituents and is crucial for maintaining footfall and attracting other businesses. Keeping these services accessible is essential.
No decisions have been taken on the future of any directly managed branches, including in Chester-le-Street. The Government set minimum access criteria to ensure that 99% of the UK population live within 3 miles of a post office. We are determined to work with the Post Office to strengthen the network.
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Assessment & feedback
No specific commitment or plan was provided regarding the assessment of potential impacts.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The post office in Chester-le-Street has been operating since 1936 and provides essential services to the local community, impacting footfall on the high street.
Does the Minister agree that keeping those services accessible is vital to keeping footfall on our high streets and encouraging other businesses to locate themselves there?
I recognise the significance of the post office in my hon. Friend's constituency, as indeed I recognise the significance of post offices in my constituency and across the UK. It is important to maintain access to post office services as they play a crucial role in the high street.
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Assessment & feedback
Acknowledged importance but did not provide specific measures or commitments for maintaining accessibility.
Response accuracy