17.Subject to the duty to ensure the provision of a universal postal service as set out in section 3, section 5 places a duty on the Commission to exercise its functions in a manner which will further the interests of users of postal services, wherever appropriate by promoting competition.
18.In performing these duties the Commission is to have regard to, amongst other things, the interests of the disabled or chronically sick, pensioners, those on low incomes, and those located in rural areas. It also provides for the Commission to have regard to the promotion of efficiency and economy on the part of postal operators; and the need to ensure that they are able to finance activities authorised or required by their licences.
Commentary on Sections Part I Introductory Section 5: Other duties of the Commission in the consumer interest