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

To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, what discussions he has had with Post Office Ltd on support for sub post offices during the covid-19 lockdown announced in January 2021.

Following the announcement of the lockdown, my Rt. Hon. Friend Mr Chancellor of the Exchequer has put in place additional support to the most affected businesses, worth £4.6 billion across the United Kingdom. Post Offices are eligible to be awarded financial support through these measures. Post Offices are also able to access other existing business support schemes, such as VAT deferrals.

In addition, Post Office Ltd’s Hardship Scheme remains open for Postmasters who are experiencing severe financial issues. Postmasters have been reminded of the application process and eligibility criteria. Further information on the Hardship scheme can be found at: https://www.onepostoffice.co.uk/secure/covid-19-situation/post-office-hardship-scheme/.

We continue to work closely with Post Office Ltd, the National Federation of SubPostmasters and other stakeholders to understand the impact that COVID-19 has had on the operation of the Post Office and how the Government can support Postmasters through this period.