Stronger action from Ofcom needed to protect and enhance universal postal service – Carmichael

In Parliament, Mr Carmichael said:

“The current parlous state of industrial relations within Royal Mail is felt acutely within the Northern Isles. For many businesses in my constituency, however, the option of moving their business from an unreliable Royal Mail service to a courier company is simply not open to them. These companies do not operate within the Northern Isles. That is why the universal service of the Royal Mail is particularly important.

“The inability of businesses in my constituency – to send out food hampers, the various drink offerings, the craft businesses that we have, and a whole range of other companies who have diversified their offerings to incorporate mail order business – has been absolutely catastrophic for us. We have felt this more acutely than any other part of the country.

“What is clear is that as a regulated business, Ofcom has powers at its disposal to protect the universal service. It is necessary surely that they come forward, and instead of entertaining talk from Royal Mail about how they reduce the universal service, they should be looking at how they use these powers to protect it.”

Speaking after the debate, Mr Carmichael said:

“Whether it is Royal Mail or any other delivery company, rural and island communities have just as much right to a reliable parcel service as the major cities. Competition has driven down prices for many but the regulator must guarantee that basic delivery needs are met here just as anywhere else. It is the responsibility of Ofcom to prevent market failure and ensure that the universal service works for all.”