7. Will the Cabinet Secretary make a statement on the Welsh Government's work to safeguard post office services in Arfon? OAQ52136

Post offices provide access to a range of important services our communities need. However, matters relating to post offices are not devolved.

The post office in Upper Bangor was closed without warning a few weeks ago, meaning that businesses, students and local residents had to rely on a mobile service in a car park, which is only available for an hour a week. That is entirely unacceptable. It is crucial that the post office in Upper Bangor has a permanent home in the future. I accept that it’s not a devolved matter, but there is a duty on the Government here to ensure that the Post Office does provide appropriate services to citizens across Wales. I’m sure you’d agree with that.

I am aware of the situation in Upper Bangor, and I can tell the Member for Arfon that this is a matter that is being dealt with currently. The Post Office is at present dealing with it. It's a contractual matter; I cannot say more than that. I am aware that alternative services have been made available, but that they are not adequate for the needs of the community, as it’s only a mobile service available for one hour on Wednesday. However, we have spoken to the Post Office, and we do understand that the Post Office cannot take any further action until the current investigation is completed.

Question 8 [OAQ52148] has been withdrawn. Finally, therefore, question 9—Paul Davies.