Last updated 21:58, Wednesday, 06 August 2008

DUMFRIESSHIRE MP David Mundell is continuing to lobby the government to strengthen the post office network.

He is helping sub-postmasters and post office customers to send a message to the government that thousands more post offices could close unless they are given the right to continue handling state pensions and benefits.

Mr Mundell has received almost 1,000 campaign postcards from constituents saying they wish to continue to use the new card account at their post office.

The government will soon choose a successor to the post office card account which gives four million people access to their benefits.

The National Federation of Sub-postmasters says that if it loses the card account business 3,000 more post offices will close.

This is on top of the government’s current review which is set to close 2,500 post offices in the UK.

Mr Mundell said: “While the government's decision to continue with the post office card account is welcome, I am aware the contract for the new account may not necessarily go to the Post Office, creating further uncertainty for many sub-postmasters.

“The bid by Post Office Ltd for the new account is strong because of its existing extensive network. But there is a legal requirement for this to be put out to competitive tender as a result of an EU directive.

“I am aware of the strength of feeling on this issue and I will continue to monitor the situation carefully. I will hand over all the postcards I receive at Westminster.”