First-class stamps and the case for privatisation

Thanks to the FT and the GMB union for pointing out the 40 per cent rise in water bills since privatisation in 1989 (“Ofwat imposes tough requirements on water companies”, July 18). I am delighted the water companies have shown such restraint: over the same period the Royal Mail raised the price of a first-class stamp by 250 per cent despite being in public ownership until 2013. Perhaps the Labour party has spotted a revenue raising opportunity in its pledge to renationalise the water industry?

Humphrey Edginton
Ivy Hatch, Kent, UK