Jardine 'relieved' at DVLA agreement with Post Office

Edinburgh West MP Christine Jardine has welcomed the news that the Post Office has agreed a new deal with the DVLA to retain some services in branches. 

The new deal involves a one-year rolling contract for up to three years, which will see Post Offices continue to provide Vehicle Tax and renewal services on behalf of the DVLA, keeping them at the heart of communities. 

Christine has worked closely with constituents across Edinburgh West, who have seen several Post Offices threatened with reduced services or operating hours. Residents in Drum Brae saw the closure of Duart Crescent's Post Office earlier this year.

She recently held a debate in Parliament to raise the matter with Business Ministers, in which she warned of the loss of DVLA services from local Post Offices, and the impact this would have on vulnerable customers. 

Christine said: “I am relieved that the Post Office have listened to the representations made by thousands of customers across Edinburgh West and the whole country.  

“During my debate in Parliament, I raised the fact that over 6 million DVLA transactions are handled by our Post Office network annually, and cutting this service would unfairly impact the most vulnerable customers. 

“This will be very good news for many hardworking postmasters in communities like Edinburgh West, and I hope the Government will continue to invest in vital facilities like our Post Office network for many years to come.”