Post Office Network 2023-03-23
2023-03-23
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP is concerned about the sustainability of post offices in his constituency.
What steps she is taking to support the post office network?
The Government has funded the network to the tune of £2.5 billion over the last 10 years, and access criteria have been set to ensure vital services remain within local reach of citizens.
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Assessment & feedback
Under Review
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
A report by London Economics highlighted the economic impact of post offices in the UK.
Last month, a report showed that Post Office has a greater economic impact on the UK than Heathrow airport. Could he also look at “drop and collect” locations?
Drop and collect locations offer important services, counted towards the 11,500 branches commitment. Access criteria ensure core services remain within reach of citizens.
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Assessment & feedback
Under Review
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The report found that the social value delivered by Post Office is significantly greater than financial input from Government.
Will the Minister carry out an analysis of how additional investment in the post office network will allow it to continue to grow?
The Government is working with Post Office, ensuring viability of rural branches. Funding helps sustain these branches and ensures facilities for communities.
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Assessment & feedback
Under Review
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
Small retail businesses are under strain and sub-post offices run by them are becoming less viable.
What steps is he taking to review the business model on which sub-post offices operate?
The model is evolving, but it is important that remuneration makes post offices sustainable. Improvements were made in August 2022 to remuneration for sub-postmasters.
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Assessment & feedback
Under Review
Response accuracy
Q5
Partial Answer
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Context
There is an ongoing update on the Horizon compensation scheme.
Has the Minister made an assessment of how much damage that scandal has done and is continuing to do?
The scandal was horrendous, proper compensation needs to be given. There is an inquiry led by Sir Wyn Williams to find out what went wrong and hold those responsible accountable.
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Assessment & feedback
Under Review
Response accuracy