councillor John gibson WELCOMES Saving the cheque As a victory for common sense

Liberal Democrat Councillor for Crosby, Thornton and Hightown, John Gibson, has welcomed the news this week that the UK Payments Council has officially announced that cheques will continue for as long as customers need them, and the target for possible closure of the cheque clearing in 2018 has been cancelled.

The ‘Save Our Cheque’ campaign was originally launched through an Early Day Motion in Parliament in November 2009 by Liberal Democrat MP for Cheadle, Mark Hunter, seconded by Lib Dem colleague and MP for Southport, Dr. John Pugh. Figures show that last year alone there were over one billion cheque transactions highlighting just how widely used this form of payment still is. In November last year Crosby Area Liberal Democrats began delivering over 6000 petitions to homes across the Crosby area, to great success. Eventually forwarding thousands onto Number 10 Downing Street and the Prime Minister.

The Payments Council’s decision was influenced by the campaign nationally and continued public pressure. After a consultation period, listening to customers, to over 600 stakeholder groups, working with the banks and following an appearance before the Treasury Select Committee, the Payments Council concluded the cheque is staying.

Commenting on the news, Councillor John Gibson, said:

“Today’s announcement means that those who rely on cheque payments can now be sure of their future.

“For small businesses and sole traders cheques are a crucial form of payment and many were concerned that their removal would drive up their costs. For customers, especially the elderly, cheques are reliable, safe and easy to use. Many residents in Manor Ward whom I have spoken to have told me of their gratitude at highlighting the campaign at such an early stage.

“This is a great victory for people power and common sense, and proves that the banks cannot afford to ignore the views of their customers.”