Yesterday (19th November) in Westminster, Alan Reid, Argyll & Bute’s MP, raised the issue of the Bank of Scotland’s treatment of Islay in the withdrawal from the island of its Business Manager.

He asked in the House: ‘Can we have a debate on the responsibilities of banks in which the Government are the main shareholder to support small businesses?

‘For example, the Bank of Scotland has withdrawn the post of business relationship manager from its branch on the island of Islay, causing widespread anger among businesses on the island.

‘A manager based on the mainland will never understand the unique circumstances of an island economy.

‘Surely the Chancellor, as the main shareholder in the bank, has a responsibility to ensure that it services businesses throughout the country, so will he intervene in that case?’

His question was answered by Leader of the House, Harriet Harman: ‘I suggest that the honourable gentleman take the opportunity to raise this matter with the Treasury Minister who will be opening the debate on Thursday 26th November. Of course it is important that all our banks serve their communities, wherever they are’.

Alan Reid has told us that he will certainly be returning to the matter in the house next Thursday (26th November).

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