Sarah Dyke, Liberal Democrat MP for Somerton and Frome, has welcomed yesterday's news that the DVLA and Post Office Ltd have agreed an extension to their current contract. The extension brings to an end widespread uncertainty about whether customers would be able to renew their driving licence or pay their vehicle tax at post office counters beyond March 2024.

In October, Sarah Dyke used a debate in Parliament to outline the importance of post offices to rural communities. She explained that the DVLA contract was due to end in the new year and expressed concern about the impact on Somerset residents of being unable to complete transactions in person. 

According to the National Federation of SubPostmasters, post offices carry out six million DVLA transactions every year, with more than half being paid for in cash over the post office counter. The Liberal Democrats have been critical of the Conservative Government for eroding the Post Office's role in handling pensions and other benefit pay-outs, TV licences and passport applications.

Sarah Dyke, Liberal Democrat MP for Somerton and Frome, said:  "Having met several postmasters in my constituency since being elected in July, and heard their concerns about the possible withdrawal of DVLA services, I'm delighted by this news. It's great to be able to let constituents know that they can continue to go into their post office to pay their car tax or renew their driving licence. 

"More than 100,000 people signed the National Federation of SubPostmasters' petition to keep DVLA services within the post office network. I was proud to lend my support to that campaign and to demand a rethink. I'm delighted that the Secretary of State has listened.

"I know how important post offices are to my constituents, particularly in rural areas, and I'm committed to ensuring they stay open and continue to offer a full range of services."