Pressure maintained on RBS as Treasury minister visits Castlebay
28 August 2018
Treasury minister John Glen heard islanders’ fears over the planned closure of Barra’s only bank
The Royal Bank of Scotland has its Castlebay branch on a hit list for the axe.
The bank was due to shut last month but received a reprieve while a review is concluded.
As Economic Secretary to HM Treasury, Mr Glen holds banking services within his remit.
During a three hour visit to Barra today, Mr Glen heard from a variety of local businesses.
He also visited nearby Castlebay Post Office and spoke to postmaster Chris Dillerstone who pointed out the various difficulties post offices would have in trying to slot into the crucial role the RBS branch currently has in the economic life of the island.
Mr Glen also heard it was faster for people to reach branches in Glasgow by plane than travel elsewhere in the islands.
Mr Glen was invited by MP Angus MacNeil to see the impact closure would have on the community.
Mr MacNeil said the community gave a “very strong impression” that the case to save the Castlebay bank is “overwhelming.”
He added: “Mr Glen will also have left with the clear impression that whatever savings one hand of the RBS is doing, the other hand of the RBS must be losing.
“Over and above all this, he heard disappointment from the community about the customer service from the RBS, given the amount of business the community both on the island and from people who have moved off the island must be giving to the RBS over the decades.
“Finally, I would like to thank John Glen MP for coming, his visit was appreciated, he showed his interest and he was genuine in his concern and questioning for what is going on in Castlebay and for that, we are of course thankful.”