The Countryside Alliance has today issued a firm warning that Ofcom’s newly announced reforms to Royal Mail’s delivery obligations must not lead to a two-tier postal system that disadvantages rural communities.

Under changes set to take effect from 28 July, Royal Mail will be allowed to reduce second class letter deliveries to alternate weekdays and will operate under relaxed performance targets. While Ofcom says the changes are designed to support a more sustainable service and prevent further price hikes, the Countryside Alliance has raised serious concerns about the about the potential impact of reduced postal delivery on rural communities, while reaffirming its unwavering support for the principle of a universal, one-price-goes-anywhere service.

Sarah Lee, Director of Policy at the Countryside Alliance said:

“We are deeply concerned over the creation of a two-tier postal system that disadvantages rural communities. The one-price-goes-anywhere principle is a red line for us. People living and working in the countryside must receive the same level of service and pay the same as those in towns and cities. That is the very foundation of the Universal Service Obligation. These reforms must not erode that.”

In our consultation response earlier this year, the Countryside Alliance highlighted how vital the postal service remains in rural areas, where digital connectivity is often unreliable and many people still rely on the post for essential personal and business communications. Our survey found that 43% of respondents prefer to communicate by letter, and 40% depend on it for running their household or business.

While we recognise the financial pressures on Royal Mail, any reforms must be accompanied by clear safeguards for rural communities, who often have fewer alternatives and a greater reliance on postal services for everything from receiving medical letters to managing legal and farm documents.

As Ofcom begins a wider review into stamp price affordability, the Countryside Alliance urges policymakers to ensure that rural voices are not ignored and that the Universal Service continues to serve the whole nation equally.

“We’ll continue to stand up for those who live and work in the countryside. Any erosion of the universal postal service is an erosion of rural fairness and we won’t let that go unchallenged.”