In response to Ofcom’s call this week for a “national debate on the future of UK’s postal service”, Sajeeda Merali, CEO, PPA said: “The PPA is closely engaging with this latest Ofcom review. We will continue to call on the government and Ofcom to prevent any moves to reduce the USO as it will directly impact our members.
“The removal of Saturday services will effect time-sensitive titles if Royal Mail can no longer guarantee a timely delivery. These legally mandated services must be maintained so as not to significantly impact a sector worth £3.74 billion to the UK economy.
“The PPA will continue to represent our members at the highest level of government and Royal Mail to ensure that consumers’ access to time-sensitive information continues.”
As reported by the BBC, a spokesperson for the prime minister said: “The PM's strong view is that Saturday deliveries provide flexibility and convenience, they are important for businesses and particularly publishers. The prime minister would not countenance seeing Saturday deliveries scrapped."
In response, Royal Mail said it was "simply not sustainable to maintain a delivery network built for 20 billion letters when we are now only delivering seven billion. We have been consistent in saying the need for reform is urgent to ensure a modern and sustainable universal service.”
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