Article: Accounts change poses new threat to the post office ; More post offices could close in Exeter and across Devon if, as expected, the Government gives the vital Post Office Card Account to another operator.

More post offices could close in Exeter and across Devon if, as expected, the Government gives the vital Post Office Card Account to another operator.

The latest uncertainty to the post office network hinges on whether the Department for Work and Pensions extends the Post Office's contract to run the service after 2010.

The POCA is used by hundreds of people in Devon, notably the elderly and those on benefits who might not have a bank account.

It is designed for direct payments. Customers cannot go into debt and it is open to anyone on state benefit.

A decision was expected this summer but now the industry believes it will come soon after November 6 - and the Glenrothes by- election.

The ...

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