Postcomm invites applications for interim licences
30 April 2001
Postcomm, the postal services regulator, is inviting operators to apply for interim licences to provide postal services in competition to those offered by Consignia, formerly the Post Office. The licences are expected to last about a year.
Postcomm today announced its interim approach to licensing designed to meet the needs of the industry until it develops a longer term policy on introducing competition.
The interim licences will enable companies to regularise the position of existing businesses, to start niche new services and to pilot certain activities in competition with Consignia. They are expected to provide benefits to customers and to reveal valuable information on the market and the ways in which competition might develop.
Graham Corbett, Chairman of Postcomm said:
“These pilot licences are designed to allow potential operators to explore the postal market on a small scale. They will not allow the establishment of large permanent facilities, and will not affect Consignia’s ability to provide a universal service.”
Notes for Editors
Applications accepted by Postcomm will be subject to consultation, which normally lasts 28 days. Following consultation, Postcomm will decide whether or not to issue the licence. There is a licence application fee of £1,000.
