Fears raised over Post Office’s changes

Cllr Rob Humby said the changes, being made as part of a national modernisation programme, could lead to cuts and speed the demise of rural communities.

Cllr Humby said: ‘This has the potential to affect the core payment paid by the Post Office which effectively contributes to the viability of the business, as well as its ability to offer other important services.

‘Post offices in villages all across Hampshire are often at the heart of the local community and really can make all the difference to the survival of a rural community.

‘They are, in fact, central to combating rural social isolation, particularly among the older generation.’

Cllr Humby said he would invite Post Office chief executive Paula Vennells to Hampshire to discuss the changes.

He called on the Post Office to explain the ‘community’ and ‘local’ branch structure.