Norman Lamb appointed Postal Affairs Minister
6th February 2012
Liberal Democrat MP Norman Lamb has been appointed Minister for
Employment Relations, Consumer and Postal Affairs. The post became
vacant following Ed Davey's promotion to Energy Secretary after
Chris Huhne's resignation as he is accused of perverting the
course of justice over speeding points.
CWU general secretary Billy Hayes
said: "This re-shuffle comes in a critical year for the postal
industry with key decisions around the Royal Mail pension scheme
and separation of the post office network from Royal Mail imminent,
and the potential break-up and privatisation of Royal Mail Group on
the cards.
"While we welcome Norman Lamb's focus on the role and
importance of postal workers, it remains unclear what he means by
'giving employees a stake'. We have many questions and
concerns about the proposed mutualisation of the Post Office and
remain opposed to privatisation of Royal Mail. However, we look
forward to working with the Minister on the key issues of
protecting and improving postal services for consumers and ensuring
first class jobs for those working in the industry."
Business Secretary Vince Cable said he was
"delighted to welcome Norman Lamb to the Department." Mr
Cable pointed to Norman Lamb's experience as an employment
lawyer and Liberal Democrat Trade and Industry Spokesman. He also
pointed out: "Norman pioneered our policy to privatise Royal
Mail and establish employee share ownership in the business so it
is fitting that he will be responsible for implementing that
policy."
In accepting the position, Norman
Lamb, who is MP for North Norfolk, said he was
"honoured" to be joining the Department for Business,
Innovation and Skills. He went on to say: "In particular,
I'm pleased to be implementing the Royal Mail reforms I
pioneered in opposition and giving employees a stake in the
company."
