HENRY Tufnell MP paid a visit to Pembroke Dock Town Council this month to give an update on the campaign for a South Pembrokeshire banking hub in the town.

It follows the closure of the Lloyds branch in June.

“I don’t want you to think I’ve been ignoring the situation, said the Labour MP for Mid and South Pembrokeshire. “I recognise the importance of the banking service.”

“Pembroke Dock is a huge hub within the south of the county,” he continued. “Wifi doesn’t cover everyone, and there is a large number of people who require a face-to-face service.

“I put those points strongly at a robust meeting with LINK.”

Mr Tufnell explained that under the Financial Services and Markets Act 2023, face-to-face banking is not a required provision - only access to cash.

“Since the meeting, I’ve written to the relevant banking minister outlining the issues.”

The MP added that the lack of in-person banking services is a UK-wide issue and “there’s a growing consensus on the Labour side.

Referencing the spirited campaign by Welsh Conservative MS Samuel Kurtz, Henry said: “Sam’s been very vocal; he’s done it well.” – In other words, to run a similarly prominent campaign would not only have been unnecessary, it could even be counterproductive. “Just because I haven’t, doesn’t mean I don’t care about the issue.”

One councillor, noting how Lloyds Bank in Haverfordwest is recording each person entering the branch, expressed concern that the county town, too, might one day lose its bank.

Another councillor pointed out that while a banking hub can give banking advice, the Post Office is not allowed to do that.

“I know the impact it’s having and will be talking more widely to my colleagues in Westminster. Basically what is needed is a change in the law,” said Mr Tufnell.