MP slams RBS bosses over plans

Bank bosses have been accused of giving customers the run-around, following their controversial decision to shut three branches in Aberdeenshire.

RBS has announced its intention to close its Banchory, Westhill and Stonehaven bases, which will mean account holders have to travel up to 20 miles to the bank’s office at Queen’s Cross, Aberdeen.

The announcement sparked a public outcry and a number of local politicians have called on the company to reconsider its proposal.

Stuart Donaldson, MP for West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine, wrote to RBS chief executive Ross McEwan expressing his “grave concerns” about the decision.

Mr Donaldson claimed the bank had failed to respond to his critique and has requested three extensions, despite promising a reply within 10 days in an email dated April 4.

He said: “RBS has completely given me and my constituents the runaround over their decision to close three vital banks in West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine. They made the decision without a proper consultation of their customers and their inability to find the time to respond to concerns over their plans is treating the community with utter disdain.”

Mr Donaldson has highlighted the fact that customers who cannot drive will face journey times of up to an hour from Banchory.

And he fears the situation could be forgotten about when he ceases to be an MP next week ahead of the general election on June 8.

RBS has apologised for the delay and has now offered to meet Mr Donaldson in person.

A spokesman said: “We would be happy to meet with Mr Donaldson. We will be in touch as soon as possible.”

Stuart Donaldson