Plea for more to join ‘mail-at-risk’ protest

Residents in remote and island communities must urgently sign a petition to safeguard the Royal Mail’s Universal Service Obligation (USO). The petition, which seeks to ensure the continuation of a reliable, affordable, and six-days-a-week postal service, needs a big boost to reach the 100,000 signatures needed to be considered for debate in Parliament.

That’s the view of Stornoway Councillor Gordon Murray who is pointing out that the Royal Mail’s USO is a cornerstone of connectivity for rural and island communities, where access to reliable postal services is not just a convenience but a lifeline.

Councillor Murray emphasises that any reduction in service – such as Ofcom’s proposed reforms to second-class letter deliveries – could disproportionately harm those in remote areas.

“For our islands, Royal Mail is more than a postal service; it’s a vital link to the mainland, supporting businesses, healthcare, and personal connections,” said Councillor Murray. “Reducing deliveries or allowing price hikes without scrutiny risks isolating our communities further.”

The petition calls on the Government to amend legislation to require parliamentary scrutiny on any change to the Royal Mail’s Universal Service Obligation

The government’s earlier response to concerns on April 23, 2025, acknowledges Royal Mail’s poor performance, with Ofcom fining the company £10.5m in December 2024 for failing to meet delivery targets.

Councillor Murray argues that the proposed changes to the USO, which Ofcom suggests do not require parliamentary approval, fail to address the needs of rural areas. “Island communities rely on consistent, affordable postal services to access essential goods, medical supplies, and communication. We cannot allow changes that prioritise profit over people,” he added.

The petition highlights the importance of maintaining the USO’s six-day service and affordable pricing, as mandated by the Postal Services Act 2011.

With letter volumes declining, Ofcom’s consultation, which closed on April 10, 2025, proposed reforms to second-class deliveries to ensure financial sustainability. Murray warns that such changes could exacerbate inequalities for rural and island residents, where alternative delivery options are either very limited or nonexistent.  Murray urges the public to sign the petitions it reaches the critical 100,000-signature threshold, which would trigger consideration for a parliamentary debate.

“This is about protecting a service that binds our nation together, especially for those in remote areas who rely on Royal Mail the most. Let’s send a clear message to Parliament that our postal service must remain universal, reliable, and affordable.”

To sign the petition and learn more, visit https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/701850