Friday 27 June 2008 3:50 am
I'm outraged that the Post Office bosses have revealed plans to close yet another Islington post office. This time its the popular branch on Goswell Road.

Two earlier reviews of the borough's post offices - including one published in February this year - did not identify this branch for closure. The Post Office themselves admit that the closure plan is simply to meet Government savings targets. Controversial Labour MP Emily Thornberry notoriously described branch post offices like Goswell Road as 'just a counter in a shop'. Three months ago, when Lib Dem MPs attempted to stop the closure programme, some Labour MPs rebelled (including Jeremy Corbyn): but Ms Thornberry voted them down.

Liberal Democrats have fought post offices closures at every stage, unlike Labour. This closure plan is a direct result of Government post office policy. Emily Thornberry has let down local people. Our post offices are not safe under Labour. Goswell Road post office is surrounded by estates and by City University. Its used by pensioners, small businesses and students alike, providing a vital local service. The nearest post offices to Goswell Road are at Farringdon, Old Street and Mount Pleasant. They are each half a mile away with no direct bus routes from Goswell Road.

If Goswell Road closes, it will be the 13th post office serving Islington & Finsbury residents to close under Labour. Earlier this year, our community campaign saved Essex Road, and we'll fight this new closure plan all the way.