Explanatory note

This Order sets out the Sub-Post Office Start-Up Capital Subsidy Scheme. The Scheme provides for the payment of subsidy by the Secretary of State in respect of the costs of establishing a sub-post office in a settlement of fewer than 10,000 inhabitants where an existing sub-post office has closed or is likely to close. The Scheme also provides for the payment of subsidy to secure the continued operation of a sub-post office in a settlement of fewer than 10,000 inhabitants where it appears to the Secretary of State that the office is likely to close. The functions of the Secretary of State under the Scheme are exercisable by Post Office Counters Limited. The maximum amount of grant payable in respect of an application is £20,000 and the total maximum amount of subsidy available is £2,000,000.