Free Cash-Machines - 1st Feb, 2007

Swansea East Labour MP has hailed a ground-breaking deal which will provide 600 new non-charging cash machines throughout the UK.

The new agreement is aimed at helping people on lower incomes to start up bank accounts and ensure that they can access those accounts as easily and cheaply as possible.

Treasury Minister Ed Balls and the Chair of Parliament’s Treasury select committee John McFall struck the agreement with the leading banks and cash machine operators.

Sian James, Labour MP for Swansea East, said:

“I have been campaigning in Parliament both for increased access to free cash machines in areas like Swansea East and for cash machines throughout Swansea to carry clear signs to show people whether they charge fees or not. I am glad this campaigning has paid off."

Treasury Minister Ed Balls said:

“This agreement will extend free access to cash to those who need it the most and enable all customers to distinguish immediately between charging and non-charging machines. I welcome the response made by the banks and cash machine operators to the campaigning of Sian James and other Labour MPs.”