MAYOR PROVIDES SECOND CLASS SERVICE TO LOCAL SUB POST OFFICES

11.48.16am BST (GMT +0100) Wed 30th Sep 2009

Liberal Democrat Council Group Leader Steve Darling has hit out at Conservative Mayor Nick Bye for a 7 month delay to support for sub post offices in Torbay.

Councillor Darling's letter says:

"Please find enclosed the 'Record of Decision' from your Cabinet Meeting on 10th March 2009 regarding supporting sub post offices.

The decision you took included bringing forward an action plan to support post offices, and writing to central government asking for all post offices to be able to offer a full range of services. I would be grateful if you could share with me any replies that you have received from your letter to central government.

It is now nearly seven months since your decision was taken, and I am not aware of any action plan being drawn up to support post offices. This is particularly galling as the Liberal Democrats proposed putting £10,000 towards this during the last budget round. Please can you tell me what action you have taken since your decision in March?"

Commenting on his letter Councillor Darling said, "Nearly seven months have passed since the Mayor made his decision on supporting local sub post offices. As far as I am aware, no action has taken place since. As usual with the Mayor and the Conservative administration there is spin but no substance.

"To ensure that our sub post offices stay open for the long term, the Council needs to provide support, such as providing more services through post offices. Action needs to take place now. We need to stop crisis management and prepare for the long term. The Mayor is providing a second class service."