Commentary on Sections The universal postal service Section 33: Exceptions to minimum requirements
171.This section sets out when the minimum requirements described in section 31 need not be met.
172.Subsection (1) sets out the maximum weight and dimensions of postal packets (as defined in section 27(2) to include letters) to which the minimum requirements apply. This definition is similar to the definition of “relevant postal packets” in the section 4(7) Postal Services Act 2000 and implements Article 3(5) and (6) of the Directive.
173.Subsection (2) removes UK public holidays from the requirements of section 31. It further provides that the minimum requirements do not need to be met in geographical conditions or other circumstances that OFCOM consider to be exceptional.
174.Subsection (3) provides that the services required by section 31 do not need necessarily to continue uninterrupted during an emergency. It further provides that nothing in section 31 prevents individual agreements with customers on prices.