Postcomm consults on licence exemptions

Postcomm today began consulting on proposed criteria for deciding whether any particular activity should be exempted from the need for a postal licence. The proposed key factors are the effect an exemption would have on the provision of a universal postal service and on the security of the mail. At the same time, in accordance with Postcomm’s policy of reducing regulation wherever possible, the document proposes three new exemptions, which would cover: • mailroom services, including a service of carrying mail between Royal mail and the user • mail services provided within a single multi-occupant building • services provided to licensees by sub-contractors, and minor amendments to clarify and extend existing exemptions. The document also sets out Postcomm’s views about how the postal regulatory regime impacts on the distribution of election material and pouch services. Today’s consultation is the first step in a process set out in the Postal Services Act 2000, which requires any changes to the list of statutory exemptions to be introduced by order of the Secretary of State for Trade and industry. Following the consultation, and having taken account of responses, Postcomm will make recommendations to the Secretary of State. Notes for editors The document says that while Postcomm will need to consider each case for exemption on its merits, it will take account of two key criteria: • whether a service carries mail most or all of which would otherwise not be available to the universal service provider, and • whether a service is carried out in such a way that the need for explicit regulation to ensure security of the mail is not needed or relevant. If these are satisfied, the document says, Postcomm would be likely to consider recommending exemption to the Secretary of State.
Postcomm also proposes to reconfirm its earlier recommendation for an exemption for securities settlement systems. MORE In relation to election material (which was the subject of a consultation last year) Postcomm points out that much of this material can now be handled by newly licensed operators but seeks views on whether there is a need for an exemption that would allow anyone to distribute such material. Postcomm requests the views of Postwatch, the postal consumer body, licensees and other interested parties on the proposed criteria and exemptions by 26 September 2003. The consultation document, Postcomm’s approach to exemptions from the need for a licence under the Postal Services Act 2000, is published on Postcomm’s website { HYPERLINK “http://www.postcomm.gov.uk” }. Printed copies will be available shortly from Postcomm at 6 Hercules Road, London SE1 7DB.