The Government must end the uncertainty hanging over the postal sector following the shelving of the Postal Services Bill, Consumers Focus Post said today.
In a letter to Lord Mandelson, the consumer champion has called on the Government to introduce a new Bill to push forward its proposed regulatory changes – including making Ofcom the regulator – regardless of whether or not the sale of a minority stake in Royal Mail goes ahead. At its board meeting today, Consumer Focus decided to go public with its call for clarity over the regulatory position before important consumer safeguards begin to falter.
Rick Hill, Chairman, Consumer Focus Post said “We have always maintained a neutral view on the partnership proposal, but thinks that the regulatory limbo affecting the postal sector will start affecting consumers if uncertainty continues.
‘Plans to reform postal regulation have been on hold for too long. The longer it takes the greater the risk of slipping standards.
‘Royal Mail and other operators need certainty so they can modernise and continue to fund the universal postal service. The Government cannot put postal regulation on hold while it waits for market conditions to improve.
‘If the Government does not proceed with a new short Bill to transfer responsibility to Ofcom, it must ensure that the existing regulator, Postcomm, is properly resourced and supported in its role.’
Notes to Editors
1. Consumer Focus Post is a statutory organisation that champions the interests of postal consumers across Northern Ireland. Consumer Focus Post started operating on 1st October 2008.
For further details please see our website: http://www.consumerfocus-post.org.uk/
