To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what discussions he has had with representatives of the banking industry on the development of the new Post Office card account; and if he will make a statement. (130191)

My officials regularly meet with representatives of the banking industry to discuss issues of mutual interest, including wider developments in the banking world.

The Government have decided that there will be a new service after 2010 when the contract for the Post Office card account ends. In accordance with the EU procurement rules. We will tender competitively for this product and a notice will be placed in the Official Journal of the European Union shortly.