Written question asked by Lord Maginnis of Drumglass (Ulster Unionist Party), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Baroness Wilcox (Conservative) on Thursday, 16 December 2010.

Royal Mail: Adverse Weather

Question: To ask Her Majesty’s Government what guidance has been issued to Royal Mail staff by the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills or managerial staff advising them against delivering mail in rural areas during the current cold weather; and whether this guidance is in accordance with the universal service obligation.

Answer: The delivery of mail in adverse weather conditions is an operational matter for Royal Mail's senior management team. The Government do not play a role in such matters. It is the responsibility of the company, working in conjunction with the regulator, to ensure that any advice given is in accordance with its universal service obligations and the prevailing weather conditions. Royal Mail has recently announced that it has committed an additional £20 million to deal with severe weather. I have however asked Moya Greene, the chief executive of Royal Mail, to respond directly to the noble Lord's Question and a copy of her reply will be placed in the Library of the House.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 5149; 723 c224WA
Session: 2010-12
Related items: Deposited Paper DEP2011-0030
Tuesday, 11 January 2011
Deposited papers
House of Lords
Subjects: Postal services Rural areas Snow and ice Postal workers
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk