The Telegraph reports that ministers have been accused of failing to protect the Post Office beyond 2021 which could put the future of 11,500 branches at risk

The Government insisted it was ‘committed to safeguarding the network and protecting rural services’, but said subsidies would be reduced to £50 million in 2020/21, given the company's ‘strengthened financial position’.

But the Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy Committee's report warned that ‘many sub-postmasters are already struggling and thinking of leaving their post offices, and the removal of £50 million in subsidies could tip many over the edge.’

The Post Office provides vital services to rural communities, including offering local information, informal support and a place for meeting fellow residents.

Post offices in rural areas are also used much more for cash withdrawals, with 24 percent of rural consumers relying on them compared to only 19 percent in urban areas.

Full article:
Print, The Daily Telegraph, 3rd June, page 10