https://www.printweek.com/content/news/ ... gun-on-uso
Ofcom has given Royal Mail a slap on the wrist for jumping the gun on potential changes to the Universal Service Obligation.
In a letter to Royal Mail CEO Emma Gilthorpe, Ofcom group director for Networks and Communications Natalie Black CBE took issue with a communiqué issued by Royal Mail to business customers who have an account with the group.
The Royal Mail letter stated: “Second Class, Economy letters and Large Letters will be delivered five days per week on alternate weekdays (Monday-Friday).
“This change will go live from 7 July 2025 or the date Ofcom agrees changes to the USO, whichever is later.”
However, Ofcom is still in the process of examining stakeholder responses to its consultation over the future for the USO, and is set to publish its decision on the matter over the summer.
Until that point, the existing USO regulations remain in place.
Black’s letter stated: “As a result, we consider Royal Mail’s announcement of changes to Second Class delivery speeds to incorrectly assume an outcome in relation to Ofcom’s decisions on the future of the universal service.
“Any reference by Royal Mail to specific dates, either in relation to Ofcom’s decision or the implementation of any potential reforms, is therefore premature.”
Black said Royal Mail should make it clear in any future communications that proposals for reform of the USO are subject to Ofcom’s decisions.
She said that given the confusion and media enquiries which have resulted from Royal Mail’s missive, “we will be publishing this letter to clarify the position for all affected stakeholders”.
In April Royal Mail pushed back on the reform proposals, describing delivery reliability targets as “over specified”.