MP Julia Goldsworthy has used a special parliamentary debate to highlight the important role that post offices play in sustaining Cornwall's communities.

During a debate on the future of the post office network, Ms Goldsworthy spoke of the "unquantifiable social value" of post offices in rural communities and highlighted the way in which they bring about social interaction among vulnerable people who are at risk of feeling excluded.

The debate comes after the Government's consultation on its proposals to close over 2,000 post offices nationwide has come to an end.

Ms Goldsworthy has consistently voiced her opposition to the Government's plans, arguing that the there is a need to look beyond the economic bottom line and recognise the vital role that post offices play within our local communities.

During the debate, Ms Goldsworthy urged the Government to ensure that before any decisions relating to closures are taken in London, the needs of the local community people are properly taken into account.

The MP for Falmouth and Camborne also argued that the current level of uncertainty is undermining the confidence of sub-postmasters in the future of the network and called on the Government to give a speedy response to the consultation.

Ms Goldsworthy said: "It is vital that before any closures are announced, the needs of the local community are properly considered. Decision makers based in London tend not to be sensitive to local needs and I am therefore calling on the Government to devolve the responsibility to local authorities.

"These proposals were announced last year and the consultation ended nearly two months ago, it is time the Government says what it plans to do so that Cornwall's towns and villages can be given the certainty they desperately need."