Last week, the Post Office announced the closure of all 115 Crown post office branches that are owned directly by the United Kingdom Labour Government, with the loss of up to 1,000 jobs. One of the 10 Scottish branches that are slated for closure is in Saltcoats, which is in my constituency.

Post offices provide a range of vital services—vital particularly to older people who are less comfortable with technology. The loss of services and jobs will be felt keenly. Will the First Minister outline what representations the Scottish Government is making to UK ministers to save these important community resources?

I understand the point that Mr Gibson puts to me. The provision of access to post office services in communities is crucial in ensuring that there is an effective network available. We will certainly make sure that the representations that Mr Gibson has made to me today are taken up with the United Kingdom Government, so that all constituents, especially those to whom Mr Gibson referred, have access to a viable and effective network of postal services in Scotland that meets their needs.