Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask Her Majesty's Government whether they sought to renew their current contract with the Post Office to provide accounts for the payment of state pensions and benefits at a lower price.

The contract with Post Office Limited is due to expire in November 2021 with an option to extend for a maximum of up to 3 years. The Department for Work and Pensions is working with Post Office Limited to agree exit timescales and arrangements. There is no option to replace Post Office Card Account once the current contract ends. The replacement service will be procured in line with public procurement regulations to ensure open and fair commercial competition.