SNP MSP for Na h-Eileanan an Iar, Alasdair Allan has sought reassurances from both the Post Office and the Labour UK Government that the full range of Post Office services will continue to be readily accessible in Stornoway, and without job losses, following reports the crown post office there could close its doors.

Presently, the Post Office and its 115 directly operated Crown Post Office branches acoss the UK remain the responsibility of the UK Labour Government but the Post office reportedly intends to close all of these. 

In Stornoway, the Crown Post Office remains the only location offering a full range of services, including passport applications.

Commenting, Alasdair Allan said:

“Businesses and individuals across Stornoway and the Isle of Lewis will certainly be worried about the prospect of Stornoway Post Office closing its doors. With bank branches closing and more services either centralising or moving online, the Crown Post Office, with its full range of services, has become an important hub for the community.

“I have written to the Post Office to seek reassurances about the jobs of employees and and also that the full range of services offered by the Crown Post Office will continue in the town. 

“As the Post Office is responsible to the Labour UK Government, I have written to the Minister for Services, Small Business and Exports to seek his assurance that the UK Government will not allow this vital service to close to island communities.

“Ultimately, UK Ministers have the powers to veto this decision, so I urge all of Scotland’s Labour MPs to use any influence they have to stop closures.” 

ENDS.