Speaking on Tuesday 12th July, Richard North, the Chairman of the Payments Council said in an email to Mr Brine;
"It's in the DNA of the Payments Council to consult and listen to all those people who actually make payments and use cheques. Listening to over 600 stakeholder groups, working with the banks and following our appearance before the Treasury Select Committee, we have concluded we should reassure customers that the cheque is staying.
"Over the last two years we have learnt a great deal about what is important to our many stakeholders and we are really grateful to all of those groups and individuals who took the time to talk to us and help us reach this decision. We will use what we've learnt to keep improving existing systems, as well as introducing innovation, so that customers benefit from 21st century ways to pay. Innovation must be at the heart of what we do."
Mr Brine said: "I am very pleased to hear this news. This is one of those issues that hasn't really hit the headlines or been at the centre of some shrill campaign, but I have had an awful lot of correspondence from constituents concerned and have fought hard to get a change of heart on the matter. I am delighted we have now been given assurances, and congratulate the Payments Council for their work in this field."
Pictured; The Hants & IOW Air Ambulance have contacted Steve on this issue in the past
More information...
If you need further, you can visit the Payments Council at www.paymentscouncil.org.uk