7 February 2008 - Local Euro-MP Caroline Lucas has launched a last-ditch attempt to save the Brighton Post Offices threatened with closure.

The MEP said the decision to close the Post Offices is part of a programme of privatisation of postal services being spearheaded by Labour MEPs at EU level. Dr Lucas has written to Post Office managers and the Government calling for an urgent ‘formal review’ of last week’s decision to close six Post Offices around the city.

The Green Party MEP, who hopes to become Brighton Pavilion’s MP at the next election, said: “The consultation process was deeply flawed, in particular because petitions with hundreds of signatures were counted as just one response, vastly underestimating local opposition to the closures.

“Worse, decisions were taken based on outdated data: information collected before the closure of the city’s main Post Office on Ship Street, and therefore data which present a wholly inaccurate picture of Post Office usage in Brighton.

“The decision means thousands with mobility difficulties will be effectively denied a local Post Office.”

Dr Lucas added: “Post Offices play an essential role in society - older people, families and other vulnerable members of the community rely on them as a way of making contact with others and accessing vital services.

“The consultation made no effort to measure the social benefits of the existing network, instead focusing purely on the profitability of individual Post Offices – this accountants’ way of doing business infects every level of public service provision under Labour.

“Just last week, for example, Labour MEPs were at the forefront of EU arguments to take the next steps in liberalising postal services.

“That’s why the people of Brighton are ready to trust the Greens, the only party to consistently fight against postal privatisation across Europe.”

ENDS