McMillan Welcomes Funding Boost for Post Offices

Stuart McMillan MSP, (SNP) has today (Monday) welcomed the announcement by the SNP Government that a £1 million fund for 2011/12 to help local post offices diversify their activities has been launched. The funding was announced by the Finance Secretary John Swinney during February's Stage 3 Debate on the Budget Bill 2011/12.

The original scheme has seen 49 small post offices around Scotland receiving offers of awards of up to £25,000 , helping them provide new services not available locally, such as the sale of fresh produce, setting up an internet café and expanding the retail operation through a website.

Mr McMillan said;

"This announcement, once again, shows that the SNP Government is focussed on protecting important frontline public services in these troubled economic times – even those controlled and often threatened by Westminster.

"£1 million is a substantial amount to help local post offices survive and offer non-post office activities in Scotland. Yet it is something Labour's MSPs voted against in the Scottish Parliament Budget vote.

"Post offices play an important role in the life of some communities. As well as postal services, they can provide access to money and banking facilities, support for local shops, and a hub for the community.

"This is reflected in the high value the SNP Government and local people attach to their post office.

"I look forward to hearing the announcement of which post offices have been successful in receiving funding."