Question to the Department for Business and Trade:

To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, what steps the Government is taking to help ensure that proposed changes to the Universal Service Obligation are implemented in a way that maintains service quality for customers and engages with postal workers.

On 10 July this year, Ofcom announced its decision to make changes to the universal postal service obligation.

Implementation of those changes are for Royal Mail’s management and the new owner in consultation with its unions. The government is aware that discussions are ongoing and encourages all parties to continue their constructive engagement to agree the best approach to reform that supports workers, delivers for customers and secures the long-term financial sustainability of the universal postal service.