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Future of Post Office network
23/05/2007
Local consultation will be critical in shaping the future Post Office network in Scotland following the UK Government's announcement that it supports plans to close 2,500 locations, MSPs were told at Holyrood today.
Cabinet Secretary for Finance John Swinney said that post office played a 'vital part in community life.
He said:
"They provide social glue in rural areas and much needed social support in deprived areas. They also have a crucial role in supporting small businesses.
"The provision of postal services is, however, a reserved issue, which lies within the province of the UK Government under the current terms of the devolution settlement.
"This means that while we feel the impact keenly and understand only too well the issues on the ground in Scotland, the Scottish Government has limited scope for independent action within the terms of the current Scotland Act. The post office issue is just one further illustration of the weaknesses of the current settlement."
He said that the Scottish Government would 'do its best within its limited powers to secure a good outcome'.
Read the full text of of Mr Swinney's statement to to Parliament.