A GOVERNMENT minister should come to East Lancashire to explain the benefits shake-up which might close more than 130 of the area's post offices.

That's the call from the leader of Hyndburn Council, amid fears that around 134 East Lancashire post offices could close if Government plans to switch welfare payments to banks and building societies go ahead.

Many postmasters fear they will go bust if the shake-up is approved because up to half their business comes through over-the-counter benefit payments. Government figures show that 20 out of Hyndburn's 22 post offices are under threat.

Council leader Peter Britcliffe has written to Hyndburn MP Greg Pope asking him to find out if a Government minister will come and talk to people who will be affected.

In his letter, Coun Britcliffe states: "Post offices play a vital part in the lives of our communities, providing a focal point which can be crucial to the viability of other businesses." He said that, despite Government reassurances about the impact of the changes, serious concerns remained both for postmasters and people who use post offices. Coun Britcliffe also asked whether Mr Pope would be able to address such a meeting if a Minister could not come.

Mr Pope was not available for comment yesterday.

Coun Britcliffe was made aware of the issue by William Aspin, sub-postmaster at West End Post Office, Oswaldtwistle.

Mr Aspin recently told the Lancashire Evening Telegraph that he would lose 40 per cent of his revenue under the new plans.

A nationwide campaign has been set up by the National Federation of Sub-Postmasters, encouraging postmasters to start petitions and make customers aware of the dangers.