The DTI is backing the efforts of the management of Post Office Ltd. to turn the business around and create a network appropriate for the 21st century. We have invested over £2 billion in total since 1999 to help them to do so.
We want to see a Post Office network that meets the needs of today and the future and not those of 20 or 30 years ago. The DTI are discussing with other Government Departments and Post Office Ltd. how we can best achieve this.
The Government are committed to a viable Post Office network and have invested more than £2 billion to help maintain it. We continue to support the rural post office network with annual Social Network Payments of £150 million until 2008 and the policy of preventing avoidable closures of rural post offices remains in place. The Department is in discussion with Post Office Ltd. and other Government Departments about the future of the network. Decisions will be taken after proper consideration of all the issues.
None. This is a matter for Postcomm, the independent regulator for postal services.
Postcomm's decision to introduce pricing in proportion followed extensive consultations and detailed discussions with Royal Mail.
None. This is an operational matter for Royal Mail. Adam Crozier, the Chief Executive of Royal Mail has been asked to reply direct to the hon. Member.