Commentary on Sections The universal postal service Section 31: Minimum requirements
156.This section sets out the services that must as a minimum be included in a universal postal service. These minimum requirements are broadly similar to those set out previously in the Postal Services Act 2000 (section 4) and comply with the requirements of Article 3 of the Directive defining the universal postal service. They are subject to certain exceptions as set out in Section 33.
157.“Requirement 1” is that, as a minimum, the universal postal service must include at least one delivery of letters every Monday to Saturday and one delivery of other postal packets every Monday to Friday. It makes clear that international mail is part of this minimum requirement.
158.“Requirement 2” is that at least one collection of letters every Monday to Saturday from every access point in the United Kingdom, and at least one collection of other postal packets every Monday to Friday. It makes clear that international mail is part of this minimum requirement.
159.“Requirement 3” is that there must be a service of conveying postal packets at affordable prices determined in accordance with a uniform public tariff. It makes clear that international mail is part of this minimum requirement.
160.“Requirement 4” is that there must be a registered items service at affordable prices determined in accordance with a uniform public tariff.
161.“Requirement 5” is that there must be an insured items service at affordable prices determined in accordance with a uniform public tariff.
162.“Requirement 6” is that specified services for blind or partially sighted persons are provided free of charge.
163.“Requirement 7” is that there must be a service of conveying qualifying legislative petitions to Parliament and devolved legislatures free of charge.