WHEN the Government ceased payment of state pensions and benefits via a payment book, four million people chose to use the Post Office Card Account (POCA) to cash their benefits. The Government is currently considering bids to run a new card account from

WHEN the Government ceased payment of state pensions and benefits via a payment book, four million people chose to use the Post Office Card Account (POCA) to cash their benefits.

The Government is currently considering bids to run a new card account from 2010, and we have serious concerns that it may decide to award the contract to another bidder.

I believe the Post Office is best placed to continue to provide this service. We offer local, convenient access for customers, who trust the staff and the Post Office brand.

I have written to Sir Alan Haselhurst urging him to support Post Office Ltd when the government considers the bids. If we fail, the consequences to local Post Offices will be devastating.

Mrs S Amos, Newport Post Office