Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, if he will bring forward legislative proposals protect access to free to use cash machines; and if he will make a statement.

The Government recognises that cash remains an important part of daily life for millions of people across the UK, and remains committed to legislating to protect access to cash.

From 1 July to 23 September last year, the Government held the Access to Cash Consultation on proposals for new laws to make sure people only need to travel a reasonable distance to pay in or take out cash. The Government’s proposals included making the FCA the lead regulator for retail cash access. As part of this the FCA would be expected to set out reasonable access requirements for cash facilities in regulatory rules, such as the appropriateness of facilities for vulnerable users, including

considerations such as cost for end users.

The Government received responses to the consultation from a broad range of respondents, including individuals, businesses, and charities. The Government has carefully considered responses to the consultation and will set out next steps in due course.