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Modern life

My bank has informed me that they will not longer deal with cheques.  I do receive cheques sometimes but it is a very long time since I wrote one, in the UK that is.  Yesterday I went to the market in Saumur and I saw at least 8 people writing cheques to pay for their fruit and vegetables.  It is the same in the supermarket when the queue waits patiently while the people in front laboriously write out their cheques.   I still have to write cheques in France.

We must not jest or sneer, however.  This 'progress' has another serious side.  Not everyone has a credit or debit card.   Not everyone has the capability to manage their finances except with cash.  Not everyone has the capability to use internet banking.  There are thousands of people with learning disabilities who can only manage their finances with help from someone else.  Many people still do not use computers or the latest versions of mobile phone.  Some people don't even have a bank account so before you dismiss anyone who isn't up with the latest technology as an idiot.  Think again.

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