Question to the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy:

To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, whether his Department has had discussions with Post Office officials on locating current and future post offices on non-ground floor premises.

The provision and location of post offices is the operational responsibility of the Post Office. The Department does not play a role in operational decisions which are for the businesses to take.

Prior to any post office relocation, the Post Office conducts a six week local consultation before making any final decision. This is to let customers and interested stakeholders know the detail of its proposal and to seek feedback.

Post Office ensures that all of its agency and franchise branches are aware of the requirements and importance if the Equality Act 2010. The Post Offices approach to accessibility is endorsed by Disability Rights UK.