This snapshot taken on 04/03/2010, shows web content selected for preservation by The National Archives. External links, forms and search boxes may not work in archived websites.

We're creating a single website for everything to do with BIS but, while we do that, you'll find information in three places. > Find what you're looking for

 
 

Postal services legislation

The Postal Services Act 2000 and various statutory instruments made under it are the most current items of legislation in force that are applicable to the postal services market.

They implemented the Government's framework for the UK postal services sector as was set out in its July 1999 White Paper on Post Office Reform. The key measures contained within the Postal Services Act 2000 provided for:

  • Greater commercial freedom for Royal Mail by creating a mechanism to transfer the business to a plc company wholly owned by Government;

  • Placing the universal postal service in primary legislation for the first time;

  • The establishment of an independent regulator for UK postal services, the Postal Services Commission; and

  • Strengthening of consumer representation for postal users via the Consumer Council for postal services. Note that on the 1 October 2008 consumer bodies Postwatch and Energywatch merged to form a new consumer body - Consumer Focus.

 

Please be aware that the Department cannot provide legal or professional advice as regards interpreting legislation for individual cases.

© Crown copyright2010