Tories take lead on Post Offices

May 26 2008 by Our Correspondent, Huddersfield Daily Examiner

FOLLOWING the announcement that seven Post Offices across Calder Valley have been earmarked for closure, I see our Local MP, Chris McCafferty, has vowed to fight for their future.

Let’s not for one minute be fooled by these “crocodile tears” instead let’s consider her voting record.

Since 2002, there have been 13 votes in Parliament on the plans for the future of the Post Office; of which Chris McCafferty has attended less than half. So when she was present, let’s look at how she voted.

May 2002 – REJECTED a motion calling for the Government to set out a clear policy and timetable for heading off a potentially disastrous collapse of the rural and urban network.

July 2004 – voted AGAINST a motion calling for the Government to end the uncertainty facing the future of rural post offices.

October 2006 – voted AGAINST a motion stating that the Post Office Network provides significant social and economic benefits and can play a key role in tackling financial exclusion and helping rural and deprived urban communities to survive and thrive.

March 2008 – voted AGAINST a Conservative motion that included; recognising the vital role that Post Offices play in local communities; Expressing concerns about the criteria for closure and the short period for consultation.

This clearly demonstrates the hypocrisy of our MP’s recent comments vowing to fight for our Post Offices!

Unlike the total lack of support shown by the Labour MP, Calderdale Conservative Cabinet has taken the lead on campaigning on behalf of those in the community who find this service invaluable, often the most vulnerable groups.

Craig Whittaker

Conservative PPC, Calder Valley, Rastrick