WEST Devon and Torridge MP Geoffrey Cox has launched a campaign to save local post office branches from closure. The move comes amidst growing concern over the impact of the government?s decision to end the Post Office Card Account scheme in 2010. It is thought this, along with plans to remove other major contracts from the post office such as issuing TV licences, will deliver a devastating blow to the already fragile rural post office network. Mr Cox said: ?By refusing to support the post office card account, the government have, once again, shown that they have no understanding of the issues that affect rural communities and which threaten our traditional way of life.? He has tabled a Parliamentary Question calling on the government to publish the number of post offices it expects to close as a result of the Department of Work and Pension?s decision not to renew the contract with the post office. Mr Cox has also written to the secretary of state demanding the government should continue the card account until a long term plan has been developed to sustain the rural post office network. ?I have received hundreds of cards and letters,? said Mr Cox: ?as well as petitions from post office card account holders in Torridge and West Devon who are, entirely justifiably, deeply disturbed that the government chose not to inform them that the scheme would end in 2010. ?Many people see the account as a way of supporting their local post office ? we should be encouraging that, not turning them away.? Over the coming weeks Mr Cox announced he would contact every post office in the constituency to gauge the reaction from sub post masters and mistresses. Mr Cox also called on local residents to show support by making use of the services they offer and by signing the nationwide petition, expressing concern at the government?s scheme.
