To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform what method was used to calculate the weekly customer figures published in the branch assessments for each post office branch facing closure. (189182)

[holding answer 26 February 2008]: This is an operational matter for Post Office Ltd (POL). I have therefore asked Alan Cook, Managing Director of POL, to reply direct to the hon. Member.

Copies of the letter will be placed in the Libraries of the House.

To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform what discussions he has had with Post Office Ltd on the options for outreach in the current closure programme; and what flexibility he is encouraging in the use of this method of delivering services. (190902)

[holding answer 29 February 2008]: I have had discussions with Post Office Ltd on the wider application of the four outreach options which were piloted with Government funding but would also encourage consideration of other viable outreach options in the light of specific local circumstances.

To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform what minimum service is being made available by Post Office Ltd under the heading outreach as part of the current closure campaign. (190903)

[holding answer 29 February 2008]: The Government consider that decisions about individual branch opening hours and service offerings are a matter for Post Office Ltd and individual sub-postmasters, reflecting the needs and level of demand in local communities.

To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform what the maximum financial amount is that a post master/mistress may be paid as compensation for branch closure. (190904)

[holding answer 29 February 2008]: The payments to subpostmasters whose offices are compulsorily closed under Post Office Ltd.'s network change programme compensate them for not being able to sell their business and are based on up to 28 months remuneration.

To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform how many post offices have closed in Castle Point over the last 10 years; and when a further review of post offices in Castle Point will be undertaken. (190496)

This is an operational matter for Post Office Ltd. (POL). I have therefore asked Alan Cook, Managing Director of POL, to reply direct to the hon. Member.

Copies of the letter will be placed in the Libraries of the House.