Liam Byrne has asked his constituents to name and shame cashpoints that charge a fee for withdrawals and to suggest which areas in Hodge Hill are most in need of a free machine.

The call comes as part of a government deal announced at the end of last year to provide 600 new non-charging cash machines throughout the country in areas like Hodge Hill.

Liam said:

“The government are looking for more suggestions for free-to-use cash machines and it is only right that our area gets them. It is a scandal that people can be charged simply for getting access to their own money. This agreement will extend free access to cash to those who need it the most. And because money withdrawn from cashpoints is often spent in the local area, free machines can help to boost local businesses.”

He added:

“A survey by Nationwide last year found that 67% of Hodge Hill machines charge a withdrawal fee compared to a national average of 43%. This is the tenth highest percentage in the country so we need to identify sites as soon as possible to make sure Hodge Hill isn’t left behind. Anyone with suggestions for their neighbourhood should send me an email or give my House of Commons office a call.”

The new agreement – part of Labour’s campaign for financial inclusion – 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. It also means that crystal clear signs must be placed on every cash machine in Hodge Hill to show whether or not they charge a fee for cash withdrawals.

Email Liam with your suggestions by clicking here.