Elderly and poor will pay heavy price if we 'sleepwalk' into a country without cash

BUSINESSES may be forced to accept cash to prevent a “two-tier system” where vulnerable people are excluded from leisure centres, theatres and public transport.

- By David Williamson

In a major report published today, Westminster's Treasury committee said Britain must not “sleepwalk” into a cashless society in which the poorest citizens are plunged deeper into poverty.

Campaigners say the elderly, domestic abuse victims and those with learning disabilities are in danger of being left worse off if businesses stop accepting banknotes and coins.

Dame Meg Hillier, who chairs the committee, said the Government was “in the dark on how widely cash is being accepted and that is completely unsustainable”.

It is feared shops and services which still accept cash will push up prices so people who are already struggling to make ends meet will “face a poverty premium”.

At present, the MPs warn, there is no legal duty to accept cash for goods and services. Shadow Chancellor Mel Stride said: “If the Government doesn’t act, we risk shutting vulnerable people out of everyday life. Cash still matters to millions and ministers must ensure it’s protected.”