Written question asked by Alistair Carmichael (Liberal Democrat) on Monday, 28 March 2005, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 5 April 2005. It was answered by Gerry Sutcliffe (Labour) on Tuesday, 5 April 2005 on behalf of the Department of Trade and Industry.

Dept of Trade and Industry

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, what steps she is taking to improve parcel post services to Orkney and Shetland.

Answer: Mr. Carmichael: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what steps she is taking to improve parcel post services to Orkney and Shetland. [224624] Mr. Sutcliffe :[holding answer 4 April 2005]: The parcels delivery market is a fully liberalised and competitive market, and many parcel operators offer a range of services to Orkney and Shetland. Royal Mail provides the universal service for parcels--the standard three to five day delivery service--which provides for the delivery of parcels weighing up to 20 kg at a uniform price anywhere in the United Kingdom. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry and I have been assured by Royal Mail that improving quality of service is the company's top priority.

Secondary information