News

New license for the Norwegian Post means a uniform tariff and reserved area is retained



The Norwegian Transport Ministry's draft of a new license for the Post Office proposes no change in central and important principles - the unit postage and reserved area. The provision of basic banking services which was proposed, is however removed.



Delivery all weekdays, overnight carriage of first class mail, service and quality level is retained as the licensing requirements.



UNI Post & Logistics Norwegian affiliate, Postkom, advises that they support much of the Transport Ministry's proposal, but are opposed to removing the provision of basic banking services from the Post. The Ministry also announced that the question of financial services will be submitted to Parliament as a separate issue later. The content in this case the difference is at present not known.



Postkom have said that they responded to the new proposals saying that banking services at post offices is a good idea that should be taken up and would provide service to those customers who require manual banking.



Postkom President, Odd Christian Overland said; “The obligation to provide basic banking services is an important means to maintain a nationwide network. Any loss will intensify restructuring needs and will lead to even greater challenges for our members. In the consultation response, we have emphasized that it is important that our members during the transition phase for the Post Office get new jobs within or outside the Post Group. To achieve this, we need both time and resources. It is important that the restructuring considerations are emphasized in the consideration of the license.”



He went on to say, “I am pleased that the draft license states that there shall continue to be a uniform tariff in the reserved area. We have conducted a long struggle to prevent further outsourcing of letter mail. The exclusive rights are an important means to ensure the financing of the unprofitable part of the Post's social mission.”