Prime Minister welcomes RBS decision on Mobile Banking in Dufftown
Moray MP Douglas Ross has highlighted the importance of banks consulting with communities, and listening to them, before announcing plans to reduce their services in a question to Prime Minister Theresa May in the House of Commons. Douglas highlighted the decision of RBS to reverse a proposal to reduce the number of mobile banking visits made to Dufftown. The Prime Minister joined Douglas in welcoming the change.
Commenting after raising the issue at PMQs Douglas said:
“I wanted to highlight in the Chamber the welcome news that RBS had listened to the representations made by myself and local people and community groups.
“While this was a welcome decision it could have been avoided if RBS had engaged with local people first. Had they done so they would have known how unacceptable and unworkable their proposals were.
“I’m pleased the Prime Minister welcomed this change from RBS which I know has been positively received in Dufftown but also her agreement that the bank must do more to listen to local communities rather than forcing changes that are rightly opposed.”
The Prime Minister agreed saying: “The banks do need to consider very carefully the impact on people and their access to services.” Mrs May also commended Douglas for his work supporting his communities.
After the debate Douglas said: “I very much hope RBS and other banks get the message. It is is loud and clear. Everyone, from local communities in Speyside to the Prime Minister in Parliament, is saying that they need to reflect on the impact their actions have on communities. We cannot accept places like Dufftown, and its surrounding area, being deprived of access to banking facilities. Let’s hope the Prime Minister’s comments prove to be a wake-up call and we see more responsible decision-making by the banks in future.”