§ Mr. John MarshallTo ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster what representations he has received about the future of the Post Office monopoly.
§ Mr. ForthI have received a number of representations in recent months from Members of Parliament and from organisations and individuals proposing changes in the Post Office letter monopoly, including proposals to lower the monopoly price level or temporarily to suspend the monopoly. We keep the monopoly under review taking account of the representations received and have made clear that we would seriously consider suspending the monopoly in the event of a cessation or serious decline in the quality of the letter service.