Peter
Viggers, MP for Gosport, will today sponsor the Post Offices
(Pensions and Benefits) Bill, which will seek to amend the
procedures for collecting pensions and benefits from Post
Offices.
The three main
aims of the Bill flow from the recommendations of the Trade
and Industry Committee report, “People,
Pensions and Post Offices” and takes forward proposals
recently launched by the National Federation of Sub Postmasters
(NFSP) in their 2004-05 Manifesto.
Peter said today, “The
Bill would introduce a simpler process for opening a card
account, prohibit pressure from
being put on those who opt for a card account to switch to
a high street bank, and would ensure that all applicants
clearly understand the availability of an exceptions service.
“The NFSP has put forward proposals on a number of
issues, of which I am very supportive. Sub Post Offices make
up 97% of the national network of Post Offices, but half
a century of lack of investment has caused great difficulties
in meeting the challenges of the modern business environment.
The Government’s decision to pay state pensions and
benefits into high street accounts rather than by the traditional
methods of order book and giro cheque has provided a further
challenge – this act alone has removed 40% of the network’s
revenue.
“Sub Post
Offices are an immensely valuable franchise and provide
a vital community link. The Government should
be supporting the network with greater investment and assistance
to ensure that high standards of service and efficiency are
maintained. I have been greatly impressed by the knowledge
that is displayed by Sub Postmasters, and their commitment
to the communities they serve. Many people, particularly
pensioners, have been unhappy about having their benefits
paid into bank accounts, and prefer the personal and friendly
service provided by Sub Post Offices.
“The NFSP
has put forward proposals on a wide range of issues related
to funding and services, and I will be
contacting all the Sub Postmasters in my constituency to
discuss the content of the manifesto with them.” |
