The last post for privatization? Prospects for privatizing the postal services

Abstract

In May 1994, the Trade and Industry Secretary, Michael Heseltine, failed to win Cabinet backing for immediate privatization of the Post Office. Over the last decade, the Post Office has improved its economic performance and quality of service. But while the Post Office remains publicly owned, it is difficult to see how it can achieve the commercial management that it needs to achieve if it is to compete in what is becoming an international market for postal services. This article reviews the arguments surrounding privatization of the Post Office and concludes in favour of early privatization.