LIBERAL Democrats in Gateshead have collected 2000 signatures on their petition calling on the government to keep the Post Office Card Account and to save Post Office branches from closure.
The government have decided to stop pensioners from getting their pensions through the Post Office and to make them get their cash through bank accounts instead. The Post Office Card Account, currently used by pensioners, will be phased out over the next few years.
There are fears that many Post Office branches will close as a result of the decision. Many rely on the payments they receive for handling pensions and on the trade older people bring when they collect their money.
“We believe people should have the choice between collecting their pensions at the Post Office or through a bank account,” said Councillor Jonathan Wallace, who is co-ordinating the petition.
“The decision by the government to take away that choice will make life more difficult for older people and will also see many more communities without a Post Office.
“Two thousand people have signed our petition calling on the government to reverse its decision to axe the Post Office Card Account. That shows there is genuine anger about the government’s decision.
“Over the coming weeks we will be continuing to collect more signatures.”
Liberal Democrat councillor for Winlaton and High Spen, Brenda Osborne, is one of those who is involved with running the petition. Over the past two weeks she has collected 500 signatures from constituents.
“Western Gateshead is made up of small towns and villages. For many, the Post Office is one of the main facilities in a community,” said Brenda.
“The government’s decision to end the role of the Post Office in dealing with pensions will be a body blow to many branches. We are fighting hard to get the government to reconsider.”
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