To ask the Chancellor of the exchequer, what steps he is taking to ensure that people can continue to access cash and banking services during the covid-19 outbreak.

The Government recognises that widespread access to cash remains extremely important to millions of people across the UK. The Government is working with the financial regulators and industry to monitor access to cash, including the impact of Covid-19.

At the March 2020 Budget, the Chancellor announced that the Government will bring forward legislation to protect access to cash, which builds on industry initiatives.

LINK, the scheme that runs the UK’s largest ATM network, has existing arrangements in place to protect free-to-use ATMs that do not have another free-to-use ATM or Post Office within 1 kilometre. They have also made £5 million available to fund ATMs at the request of communities with poor access to cash.

In response to Covid-19, banks, building societies, credit unions and Post Offices are working to maintain access to their services, including access to cash, while balancing the needs of their customers with the safety and welfare of staff. The Financial Conduct Authority have issued guidance to regulated firms, including on provision to allow a trusted third party to make payments on behalf of vulnerable customers who may be shielding or self-isolating.