News

One of UNI's UK affiliates, the CWU, has issued the following press release on the long awaited "Hooper" report into the operations of Royal Mail. The report which advocates partial privatisation of Royal Mail, can be found at;

http://www.berr.gov.uk/whatwedo/sectors/postalservices/Review/page45129.html

Billy Hayes, general secretary, said: "It is incredible that the British Government which has lead the world in overhauling banks need another European postal service to rescue the Royal Mail. Especially one which has already been disgraced by losing sensitive data disks in the mail.

"This was meant to be a report about competition but Mandelson has ignored the damage done through irresponsible liberalisation and advocates more involvement by private companies.

"We welcome the move to Ofcom which recognises both changes in the communications sector and the failings of Postcomm to manage the mail market effectively, however we look forward to receiving more information on future regulation."

Dave Ward, deputy general secretary, said: "There is no need to seek private funding from outside companies in a joint venture. This would open the floodgates for full-blown, damaging privatisation. Post is a key public and business service which must retain the protection and guidance of Government for sustainable success.

"We welcome the fact that our campaign to get the Government to secure Royal Mail workers' pensions has been successful. The news that the USO has been safeguarded is also very welcome.

"We will be studying the detail of the report closely over the coming weeks and will respond fully in the New Year."