Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, whether she is taking steps to ensure that people who rely on in-person banking services are provided with suitable alternatives.

The Government understands the importance of face-to-face banking to communities and high streets and is committed to championing sufficient access for all as a priority. This is why Government is working closely with industry to roll out 350 banking hubs across the UK. The UK banking sector has committed to deliver these hubs by the end of this Parliament. Over 200 hubs have been announced so far, and over 100 are already open.

Another option for in-person banking is the Post Office. Through the Post Office Banking Framework, 99% of personal banking and 95% of business banking customers can access vital cash withdrawal and deposit facilities in-person at 11,500 Post Office branches across the country. The Government protects the Post Office network by setting minimum access criteria. These include ensuring that 99% of the UK population lives within three miles of a Post Office and 90% of the population within one mile.

Some banks also provide their own community banking services via pop-ups in community centres and libraries, or operate mobile banking vans, and the Government supports these initiatives.

Further alternative options to access everyday banking services can be via telephone banking and through digital means such as mobile or online banking. In 2022, over 65% of those aged over 75 used online banking or mobile apps. The Department for Science, Innovation, and Technology (DSIT) has recently published a Digital Inclusion Action Plan which sets out the Government’s first steps towards our long-term objective of ensuring everyone has the access, skills, support and confidence to participate in our modern digital economy.