Bermuda is to stop using manual franking machines next year.Economy, Trade and Industry Minister Kim Wilson announced the move today.The move is the result of changes in postage meter technology and a lack of technical support for the few machines still in circulation, she said.Machines in use after January 1, 2012 may be seized by the Bermuda Post Office under the Bermuda Post Office Act and Regulations.“Manual franking machines have been out of use in other developed countries since 2002,” Sen Wilson said.“Bermuda is one of the few developed countries that has a handful of franking machines in use. This move brings the Bermuda Post Office in line with revenue protection initiatives and global trends in postage meter technology with other developed member countries in the Universal Postal Union.”There are currently less than two dozen manual postage franking machines in circulation on Island.Said a Government spokeswoman: “The Post Office will not be filling any manual reset postage meters after 1 October to allow those customers with manual franking machines to use the remaining funds in their meters.“Any funds remaining in meters after January 1 will be credited to replacement postage meters upon surrender of the old meters to the Post Office.”Holders of the machines are being contacted by the Post Office and advised of the changes.For more information telephone 294-4472.