The Deputy First Minister of Scotland called on banks to create “centers” to preserve banking services in rural areas.

John Swinney believes that several banks sharing the same building could be a solution to the problem of closing branches, which in recent months has hit hard in the village of central Scottish county of Perthshire.

In December 2017, the Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS) announced the closure of 62 branches with a reduction of 158 jobs. Branches in Perth, Pitlochry, Aberfeldy, Kinross, Comrie and Dunblane were among those that were liquidated in the following months.

RBS said that this decision was based on the fact that since 2012 the number of customers has decreased by almost 50%, and Internet banking has grown by 73%. Last month, RBS announced plans to cut operating hours at its subsidiaries, including Blairgovry, Cupar-Angus, Pitlochry and Aberfeldy.

At a meeting with Royal Bank of Scotland officials, John Swinney said, “The idea of ​​a“ banking hub ”deserves special consideration, and I hope this is something that can be explored. Reducing branch opening times is clearly not good news for local communities. ”

“I hope that the business decisions made by RBS will ensure the continued viability of the branches in Perthshire, but if attempts are made to close these facilities in the coming years, I will strongly oppose such steps.” - said the Deputy First Minister of Scotland.