14. To ask the Deputy Prime Minister what steps he is taking to secure the future of the Post Office network. (86202)

As the hon. Member may be aware, I chair the Cabinet Committee on the future of the Post Office network.

The Government remain committed to a viable Post Office network, and to ensuring that communities have access to the services they need, including Post Office services. That is why we have committed £300 million over the period 2006-08 to support the rural network, on top of £450 million in 2003-05.