Written question asked by Marion Fellows (Scottish National Party) on Friday, 15 May 2020, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 20 May 2020 (named day). It was answered by Paul Scully (Conservative) on Wednesday, 20 May 2020 on behalf of the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy.

WH Smith: Post Offices

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, what assessment he has made of the effect on the level of viable Post Office branches of WH Smith's recent fall in revenue.

Answer: The Government recognises the critical role that post offices play in communities and for small businesses across the UK. While the Government sets the strategic direction for the Post Office, it allows the company the commercial freedom to deliver this strategy as an independent business. As such, the impact of WH Smith’s recent fall in revenue on the viability of post office branches is an operational matter for Post Office Limited. I have asked Nick Read, the Group Chief Executive of Post Office Limited, to write to the Hon. Member about this matter. A copy of his reply will be placed in the libraries of the House.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 47340
Session: 2019-21
Related items: Deposited Paper DEP2020-0308
Wednesday, 27 May 2020
Deposited papers
House of Commons
Subjects: Post offices WH Smith
Link: View this Written question on www.parliament.uk