Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what assessment he has made of the effect of the decline in the use of cash and cheques as a result of the covid-19 outbreak on financial inclusivity.

The Government remains committed to helping people and businesses through the present very difficult time that has been brought about by COVID-19.

Financial services firms have announced a range of measures to support vulnerable customers and we are working with the Financial Conduct Authority to ensure there is continued support for these people. For example, many firms have methods for trusted third-parties to access cash. Anyone with questions should contact their banking service provider.

The Government recognises that widespread access to cash is extremely important to the daily lives of millions of people across the UK. That is why, at the March 2020 Budget, the Chancellor announced that the Government will bring forward legislation to protect access to cash. This will ensure that those who continue to rely on cash can continue to do so in the long-term.