§ Mr. SpearingTo ask the Prime Minister, pursuant to his statement of 22 July concerning postal services of the Royal Mail, what factors Her Majesty's Government will take into account in determining the price level at which private service alternatives will be permitted; and when he expects to announce the new level.
§ The Prime MinisterIn determining the minimum price level at which private operators will be allowed to provide letter services, the Secretary of State for Trade and 783W Industry will satisfy himself that the Post Office's ability to meet its statutory obligations and to provide a nationwide letter service within an affordable uniform tariff structure will not be undermined. He will also bear in mind the potential for improvements in the Post Office's efficiency and service quality as well as tariff levels and the financial targets that he sets. He will make a significant move after the necessary legislation is enacted.