Communication Workers Union condemns the government’s decision to close 2,500 post offices across the UK

The Communication 
Workers Union (CWU) has condemned the government’s decision to close 2,500 post offices across the UK as a “devastating blow”.

Trade and industry secretary Alistair Darling confirmed the closure of 2,500 post offices earlier this week.

He said the current situation was “unsustainable”, with financial losses of £4m a week and fewer customers every year.

Andy Furey, CWU assistant secretary, said “Unfortunately, it seems the government had already premeditated the future of 2,500 post offices across the UK throughout the sham that was called a consultation period.

“This is a devastating blow for millions of people across the UK, as post offices are a vital and integral part of society. The closures will make life even more difficult for vulnerable people.”

Instead of spending taxpayers' money on redundancy packages, the government should have invested in maintaining the Post Office network, the union said.

In addition to the 2,500 closures, there are also plans to privatise 85 Crown Post Offices – 70 of which to high-street retailer WH Smith.