Uncertainty for Edinburgh post offices following Labour cuts

4.52.13pm GMT Thu 14th Dec 2006

Liberal Democrats have reacted furiously to the news that the Labour Government plans to decimate the post office network by closing 2,500 post offices.

The closures are likely to begin next summer and will continue for 18 months. Most recently, post offices have been affected by the Labour Government's decision to pay pension and child benefit directly into bank accounts. TV licences, driving licences and passports are now being supplied online and through other retailers.

Lib Dem Westminster spokesman for Edinburgh North & Leith, Kevin Lang said, "In the last few years, Labour have closed over 20 post offices across Edinburgh including the popular Hope Street branch. Now even more branches face closure, branches that local people depend on for vital day to day services.

"If tough decisions on Royal Mail had been taken, the freedoms and funds for saving post offices could have been found. Our postal services have a proud 300 year history which this Government has decimated in less than a decade."