Treasury claims ‘free cash machine progress’

Six months since its plans were announced, the Treasury reports that 127 non-charging cash machines have been installed nationwide, while a further 471 locations have been identified as suitable for free ATMs.

According to economic secretary to the treasury Ed Balls, more than one million Britons living in “low-income areas” will soon have easier access to a free-to-use cash machine.

“The free cash machines already in use are enabling over 260,000 residents in low-income areas to access cash more easily, with a further 822,000 standing to benefit from the confirmed free cash machines still to come on stream,” said Mr Balls.

Meanwhile, the Citizens Advice charity reported earlier this year that more than 1.4 million British consumers approached its staff for debt advice during 2006.