Ron Delnevo, Bank Machine's Managing Director, today hit out at suggestions that Link's proposals for ATMs in "low income areas" were being funded by Banks and Building Societies.

Ron notes in relation to Bank Machine ATMs: "If the machines in the areas in question achieve decent transaction levels - and we expect them to - they will not qualify for the mooted increased payments through Link.

"In any event, Bank Machine has told Link that if any such payments are received, Bank Machine will donate them to Charity. We have made clear from the outset that we do not believe any incentive is needed to provide a decent level of ATM service in these areas. The residents deserve a good service, without having their areas stigmatised or categorised by outsiders."