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There was widespread anger and dismay at the news that the Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS) is to close a number of branches across the Highlands and Islands. Thomas Curry: ‘These banks are not interested in providing a service. Never have been. How the elderly, disabled and young mothers with no transport get on beats me. The elderly and disabled generally do not believe in internet banking. When the Clydesdale Bank closed the Grangemouth branch, they took away the ATM at the same time. Can the banks mentioned not at least keep the ATM facility.’
Danielle Hay-West: ‘This is ridiculous. And yes while a lot of folk use online now. Again the most vulnerable in our area will be worst affected. There is little consideration given to elderly or learning disabled when someone in an office far away makes these decisions. Makes me mad.’
Stuart Craine: ‘Add in the issue of limited and expensive internet access for some in the more remote areas of Argyll, this is a poor show. I wonder if they’ll assist these areas with the funding needed to get decent internet access to these folk?!’
Samantha Leiper: ‘Yes i have internet banking. But i am always in my bank taking money out or putting checks and money into my accout i stay over an hour away from my bank as i stay in middle of nowhere this is rediculous and will effect alot of people.’
Sue Hearn: ‘Same issue in lake district HSBC Natwest closed many branches. When you complain get told to use the post office. Why should we? Our bank should provide us with access to their services. My RBS branch 75 mile round trip. Reciprocal arrangement with Nat west now means same due to their closures. Branches are vital for individuals paid in cash, businesses paying in takings or needing change, young, old etc. No amount of complaining made any difference here and post offices few and far between now too.’
Alison Lindsay: ‘And how much did they pay out to shareholders this year? .... and I thought The British Taxpayer still owned most of RBS?!’
Hamish Kirk: ‘it is the UK that owns 72%. They have as much interest in our welfare as did the Duke of Cumberland.’
Jenny Jeffree: ‘Are they going to provide a mobile bank service? Ours is brilliant (Bank of Scotland).’