I’m extremely disappointed that yet another local bank is set to close, this time Halifax in Muswell Hill.  It’s only a matter of months since Halifax closed their Crouch End branch and it’s another blow for our high street and for customers, especially older and disabled people, who value face-to-face banking services.

It’s not good enough for banks making record profits just to push customers online and make it ever harder to speak to a human being.  Although many people can use online services, I believe we need to help protect access to face-to-face banking services for residents and businesses who need them. Banks also play an important part in keeping high streets busy and bringing customers to support other local shops.

For years now I’ve been urging the Government to protect essential in-person banking services and it’s bitterly disappointing that they’ve repeatedly failed to act.

On Tuesday 19 September, I presented my petition signed by almost 200 local residents urging the Government to do more to protect face-to-face banking.

Thank you to everyone who has signed the petition and supported the campaign.  Watch my presentation in Parliament here: