Postal Services Bill [HL]

Long title

To make provision for the restructuring of the Royal Mail group and about the Royal Mail Pension Plan; to make new provision about the regulation of postal services; and for connected purposes.

Summary

<p><br>The Bill provides for the restructuring of Royal Mail Group Ltd, changes in the Royal Mail Pension Plan, and a change in the regulation of postal services.</p><p>Key areas</p><ul><li>Makes provision to ensure Royal Mail Group Ltd and Post Office Limited remain in public ownership, while allowing for a sale of a minority stake in Royal Mail</li><li>Introduces changes to the Royal Mail Pension Plan, including the transfer of Royal Mail&rsquo;s historic pension deficit to the Government </li><li>Establishes a new regulatory regime for the postal services sector, including transferring regulatory responsibility from Postcomm to the Office of Communications (OFCOM), with the primary duty of OFCOM in relation to postal services being to maintain the universal service. </li></ul><p> </p>

Progress through Parliament

1. 1st reading· Lords

   25 February 2009 – 25 February 2009

2. 2nd reading· Lords

   10 March 2009 – 10 March 2009

3. Committee stage· Lords

   24 March 2009 – 27 April 2009

4. Report stage· Lords

   11 May 2009 – 11 May 2009

5. 3rd reading· Lords

   20 May 2009 – 20 May 2009

6. 1st reading· Commons

   21 May 2009 – 21 May 2009

7. 2nd reading· Commons