| answer text |
<p>Currently, LINK (the scheme that runs the UK's largest ATM network) has commitments
to protect the broad geographic spread of free-to-use ATMs and is held to account
against these commitments by the Payment Systems Regulator. LINK has committed to
protect free-to-use ATMs more than one kilometre away from the next nearest free ATM
or Post Office, and free access to cash on high streets (where there is a cluster
of five or more retailers) that do not have a free-to-use ATM or a Post Office counter
within one kilometre.</p><p> </p><p>LINK publishes monthly statistics on its ATM network
on its website <a href="https://www.link.co.uk/initiatives/financial-inclusion-monthly-report/#:~:text=LINK%20has%20also%20committed%20to,commitment%20can%20be%20found%20here"
target="_blank">https://www.link.co.uk/initiatives/financial-inclusion-monthly-report/#:~:text=LINK%20has%20also%20committed%20to,commitment%20can%20be%20found%20here</a>.</p><p>
</p><p>However, in recognition that cash continues to be used by millions of people
across the UK, including those who may be in vulnerable groups, the government legislated
through the Financial Services and Markets Act 2023 to establish a new legislative
framework to protect access to cash. This establishes the Financial Conduct Authority
(FCA) as the lead regulator for access to cash and provides it with responsibility
and powers to seek to ensure reasonable provision of cash withdrawal and deposit facilities.
The FCA recently held a consultation on its proposed regulatory approach: FCA Access
to Cash Consultation. The FCA is currently considering feedback and expects to publish
its final rules in the third quarter of this year.</p>
|
|
