Martyn Day, the MP for Linlithgow and East Falkirk, is working with the NFSP to ensure Government hears of the incredible work done by subpostmasters and the importance of continuing to provide financial support for the post office network through its subsidy payment beyond March 2021.
In the House of Commons on Monday 16 November, Mr Day presented a petition that NFSP members in his constituency are currently sharing with local residents. The petition reads:
“The petition of residents of Linlithgow and East Falkirk,
Declares that subpostmasters and their staff carry out valuable work daily to support their local communities; further declares that they provide financial services that ensure the physical and psychological wellbeing of vulnerable people; and further declares that all subpostmasters should be commended for their efforts and their role should be preserved by a UK Government commitment to the post office network.
The petitioners therefore request that the House of Commons urges the Government to ensure the extension of the post office subsidy beyond 2021; and make a formal statement on the integral role that subpostmasters play in supporting their communities.”
The NFSP thanks Mr Day for his support of subpostmasters and encourages all MPs and industry stakeholders to show support too. Post offices are a lifeline for the communities they serve. According to the NFSP’s research, the network acts as a support mechanism for as many as 300,000 vulnerable people - but many post offices may not be able to continue to function if Government’s subsidy is not maintained.