To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what steps he will be taking to encourage cross-departmental working on the future of rural post offices. (79425)

As Chairman of the Cabinet Committee on the Post Office Network (MISC 33) set up in May of this year, I have a key role in bringing together different Departments to discuss issues relating to rural post offices and to deliver agreement on actions.

The Government remains committed to rural post offices as demonstrated by our £750 million package of support—£150 million per year for five years to 2008—through the Social Network Payment.

I will continue to work with ministerial colleagues to ensure that Government policy-making in this area is coordinated effectively.