Hull to get new free cash machines

Diana Johnson MP today welcomed news that six new free cash machine will be installed in Hull North following a campaign to increase the number of non-charging machines.

The free machines are part of a ground-breaking deal between banks, building societies, cash machine operator LINK, MPs and the Government to provide 600 new non-charging cash machines throughout the country in areas where there is a shortage, such as parts of Hull North that are furthest from Hull city centre.

Under the deal clear signs will also have to be placed on every cash machine to show whether or not they charge a fee for withdrawals.

The aim of the agreement, struck at the end of 2006 with the leading banks and cash machine operators by Treasury Minister Ed Balls and the Chair of Parliament's Treasury select committee John McFall, is to help people on lower incomes to start up bank accounts and ensure that they can access those accounts as easily and cheaply as possible.

Diana Johnson MP said: "It is great news that we are going to get some new free cash machines across Hull. They will be a real benefit to local residents, who have previously had to either pay to withdraw their cash or travel further afield.

"It will be a particular improvement for those parts of Bransholme and Orchard Park in Hull North that are both distant from the city centre and not near one of the large supermarket sites. This is the sort of facility that everyone should have within reasonable walking distance of their home.

"I'm also pleased that the banks and building societies have agreed that every cash machine in Hull will carry clear signs to show people whether they charge fees or not."

There are also plans for further new free cash machines at sites in Hull yet to be identified. Hull North people with suggestions about where these machines should be located should either visit http://www.link.co.uk/atm/access_to_cash/public_suggestion_area.html or write to Diana Johnson MP at the House of Commons, London SW1A 0AA. The Hull North MP will be pleased to pass suggestions on to Link.

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