KEETCH CALLS ON ROYAL MAIL TO HONOUR RURAL COLLECTION

9.34.00am GMT Fri 15th Oct 2004

Hereford's Lib Dem MP Paul Keetch is one of several MPs to have tabled a motion in Parliament calling for the Royal Mail to protect rural mail collections. The Early Day Motion (number 1665) says that any reduction in collections will adversely affect rural businesses and further isolate rural communities.

"Village and rural life is already under great threat" said Mr Keetch.

"As more housing is used up by second home owners and retired people, the use of village schools, shops and pubs is in decline. One of the key ways that businesses and individuals can still keep in touch is via the Royal Mail. This service must not be cut.

"I have joined with other rural MPs to table this motion and I hope other MPs will support it. We need to send a strong cross Party call to Royal Mail that we will fight any reduction in rural collections."

Full text of EDM 1665

RURAL MAIL COLLECTION

Younger-Ross/Richard

Keetch/Paul

That this House notes with concern the Royal Mail's proposed reduction in rural mail collection; and believes that this will adversely affect businesses in rural areas, as well as further isolating rural communities.