SURVEY RAISES CONCERNS OVER POSTAL PRICING

Mike Weir MP, SNP Westminster Spokesperson on Trade and Industry, has expressed concerns over the findings of a survey by the British Chambers of Commerce which has revealed that 60% of their members had seen an increase in their costs since the introduction of pricing in proportion by Royal Mail.

Mr Weir said this contrasted sharply with assurances given at the time of introduction of the scheme.

“When the scheme was introduced concerns were expressed as to its effect and Royal Mail insisted that 80% of mail would not change in price. The fact that 60% of business has seen a rise in costs shows that the change has had a serious adverse impact on business.”

“Worse still 84% of small and medium sized businesses felt that the new system had not simplified the way in which mail was prized. In effect business has seen a rise not only in costs but in complexity. “

“Pricing in Proportion and now attempts to introduce zonal pricing hit at the fundamental tenets of a universal service obligation and will seriously impact on businesses throughout Angus, many of whom rely on Post Office services.”

“Royal Mail urgently need to revisit this issue. The news that Amazon have ended their contract with Royal Mail demonstrates the necessity for the company to listen to those businesses who remain loyal to them. If they do not they risk losing yet more business to alternative carriers”