Benefit claimants could get cheaper stamps

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Benefits claimants will pay less for stamps under plans for a social tariff being considered by Ofcom.

The scheme would be similar to existing measures in the telecoms industry, where cheaper mobile and broadband packages are offered to people claiming benefits such as Universal Credit and Pension Credit.

Ofcom, the industry regulator, is also mulling a subsidy for post to specific addresses, allowing people to send letters to organisations such as the Department for Work and Pensions or NHS at a discount or for free.

The plans form part of a wider review of affordability for postage following a sharp increase in stamp prices. The price of a first-class stamp has doubled from 85p to £1.70 in the last four years.

The regulator said there was evidence that some vulnerable people were struggling with the higher costs, particularly those on low incomes.

However, the introduction of a social tariff would likely drive up first-class stamp prices even further for other consumers as Royal Mail would be forced to recoup the costs.

More at https://www.telegraph.co.uk/gift/18c3aec46ba6db30

[Mr Rush]

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