Preseli Pembrokeshire Assembly Member Paul Davies is expressing his concern over the decision to close the HSBC St David's branch in December this year. In a letter to Mr Davies, HSBC have said that their "branch network [must] remain fit for purpose" and that existing accounts will be transferred to their Fishguard branch, some fifteen miles away.

Commenting on this, Mr Davies said, "I am saddened to hear that HSBC have decided to close their St David's branch. I accept that we are living in tight financial circumstances and that all branches must be commercially viable. However, I remain concerned the effect that this closure could have on my constituents, and indeed local businesses. On this basis, I have written to HSBC outlining my concerns."

"Rural areas in Pembrokeshire have seen services slipping away in recent years and it is unfair that constituents should have to travel further afield for services that they previously had on their doorstep. I understand that branch staff will attempt to identify any customers who have mobility problems and offer them practical solutions and advice such as mobile banking training or internet banking training. However, for residents in the St David's area who do not have access to this technology, a local branch is an essential lifeline for them to access their accounts."