MP warns of serious threat to post in Moray through privatis

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MP warns of serious threat to post in Moray through privatisation

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The importance of preserving postal services in rural regions such as Moray are being highlighted by local MP Angus Robertson this week.

Mr Robertson is warning of the threat to the Universal Service Obligation (USO) that privatisation of the Royal Mail would bring.

The Moray MP has long argued the case against allowing other companies to "cherry-pick" the more profitable parts of the mail service, leaving areas such as Moray disadvantaged with Royal Mail having to pick up the pieces.

Last week the SNP's postal affairs spokesperson at the UK Government, Mike Weir MP, addressed a rally arranged by the Communications Workers Union (CWU) at Westminster warning of the threat.

Mr Robertson said: "The turnout from postal workers from around the country at the CWU rally was very impressive. The strong support demonstrated the real concerns amongst postal workers on the future of the USO.

"The SNP has long argued that privatisation posed a huge risk to the USO, which is so important to areas such as Moray.

"Not only residential consumers but, crucially, small businesses rely on the postal service to enable them to operate in rural areas. They cannot get access to the special deals offered and need a reasonable cost universal service."

The Moray MP added that no private company would deliver letters to areas such as Speyside at a reasonable cost - if at all.

He added: "We have seen what has happened with private parcel delivery services where surcharges are added. We cannot allow the USO to be put in jeopardy.

"The CWU has made the point that OFCOM, the regulator, recognises the dangers with the growth in end to end competition but refuses to take action. This is absolutely ludicrous.

"Action must be taken to protect the USO. Whatever the theory of competition it will not work in rural areas like Moray.

"Our postal services are far too important to be sacrificed in the name of competition in urban areas."