SWINDON Borough Council is to discuss setting up an all-party task force to review the possible loss of a third of the town's sub-post offices in nationwide closures.

The proposal by the Liberal Democrats due to be discussed at tonight's full council meeting, comes in the wake of protests by Shaw residents about the planned closure of their branch when Tesco takes over the One Stop shop there.

It follows an announcement by the Post Office that 3,000 of its 9,000 urban branches will be shut. Communities will only find out where the cuts are to be made in June.

Coun Stan Pajak (Lib Dem, Eastcott) said: "Swindon had 30 post offices a couple of years ago but, with the closure of Theatre Square and Fleming Way in the town centre, and the Safeway store post office in Haydon Wick, only 27 are left.

" My fear is 10 post offices will close in the town. The question is where and how will local people be consulted?

"Tesco in West Swindon gives the impression of no community conscience whatsoever.

"It is regrettable a store that relies on the goodwill of the public for its profits is acting in such a detrimental fashion towards them."

He proposes using a group to investigate the closure of sub-post offices and to look at the effects on communities and businesses.

The council meeting, at 7pm at the Civic Offices in Euclid Street, is also expected to discuss the Shaw closure.