Mike Weir 'troubled' over postal services threat

As Royal Mail reveal that profits have fallen by one-third, SNP Postal Affairs spokesperson, Mike Weir MP, has called on the UK Government to guarantee that the universal service obligation (USO) will not be watered down, and that there will be no threat to daily postal deliveries.

Mr Weir’s comments follow the publication of the Review of Postal Services this week which said the current problems of the Royal Mail put the universal service in jeopardy, and the publication of the Royal Mail accounts which show the Universal Service Obligation making a loss.

Mr Weir said:

"This is a pivotal moment for the postal service. The UK Government must guarantee that they will not allow currently difficulties to lead to either a watering down of the USO or a reduction in daily deliveries.

"Previously both the UK Government and Postcomm maintained that the USO was a valuable asset to the Royal Mail. This is shown to be untrue, however, it is nonetheless a vital social asset, particularly in rural and remote areas.

"Small and medium sized businesses throughout Scotland rely on the Royal Mail and already face problems with only one delivery a day, sometimes late in the afternoon. If even this was to be threatened it would be a complete disaster. These businesses are often situated in residential areas and only get the same service as domestic customers.

"There is no realistic alternative to Royal Mail for most of these businesses, many of whom are also being hit by the current rash of post office closures.

"UK Ministers urgently need to review their whole approach toward postal services. The Universal Service Obligation was the gateway that allowed competitors into the market by ensuring they had UK wide delivery services. They should also contribute to the substantial costs of meeting that obligation."