asked Her Majesty's Government:

Which (a) public relations agency or agencies, or (b) public affairs agency or agencies, are currently employed by Post Office Limited to advise or assist with the current post office closure programme; and what is the approximate value of any such contracts. [HL1028]

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 noble Lord.

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

asked Her Majesty's Government:

How many co-located businesses they estimate will close due to the current post office closure programme being undertaken by Post Office Limited.[HL1029]

It is not possible to say what effect the closure of individual post offices will have on any co-located retail businesses until the implementation of Post Office Ltd's relevant area network change plan is completed.