Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, when he plans to bring forward legislative proposals on guaranteeing access to cash.

The Government recognises that cash plays a vital role in the daily lives of millions of people across the UK, including those who may be self-isolating due to Covid-19.

At the March 2020 Budget, the Chancellor announced that the Government will bring forward legislation to protect access to cash. The Government will continue to engage with regulators, industry and consumer groups whilst developing this legislation, to support those who rely on cash.

This will build upon existing initiatives from industry. LINK, the scheme that runs the UK’s largest ATM network, has put in place specific arrangements to protect free-to-use ATMs that do not have another free-to-use ATM or Post Office within 1 kilometre. The Government-established Payment Systems Regulator regulates LINK and is holding them to account over their public commitments.

Further information on the timing and detail of the legislation will be announced in due course.