Sorry Mark, in the light of current world financial turmoil, I too would dismiss such throw away comments as 'wise economists'. These current problems had A LOT to do with the majority of people believing that a small minority knew all about money and how to run the world. Some of that minority turned out not to understand what they were peddling and some knew all too well but were just crooked. This is where STRONG government regulation comes into play. Government exists to govern. That means not just arguing the toss about gay 'marriage' but to create a fair and level playing field in which ALL of us can live, work, do business and prosper.
On the subject of the post office - I live in the European Union (also known by its project name 'The Single Market'). Founding principle number one - 'The free movement of goods, capital and people'.
There are only two ways you could make this baby fly - pan-nationalise everything (can you imagine the arguments and power struggles) OR as we are doing (coz its easier) privatise the hell out of everything.
The UK Post Office is not yet privatised. It is however open to some competition as EU directives rack up the pressure. One day it will be privatised but there will be MANY fights before then.
People worry about: jobs, the killing of small rural communities through local PO closures, delivery service levels and universal delivery at a standard affordable price.
Re: USPS
On the subject of the post office - I live in the European Union (also known by its project name 'The Single Market'). Founding principle number one - 'The free movement of goods, capital and people'.
There are only two ways you could make this baby fly - pan-nationalise everything (can you imagine the arguments and power struggles) OR as we are doing (coz its easier) privatise the hell out of everything.
The UK Post Office is not yet privatised. It is however open to some competition as EU directives rack up the pressure. One day it will be privatised but there will be MANY fights before then.
People worry about: jobs, the killing of small rural communities through local PO closures, delivery service levels and universal delivery at a standard affordable price.
These problems can (with imagination) be overcome HOWEVER to quote the OECD 'Reform of this sector needs to be handled thoughtfully and with attention to employment and universal service issues. Specific attention must be paid to introducing new regulations which ensure non-discriminatory access to essential facilities'. THAT TRANSLATES AS GOVERNMENT ACTION AND REGULATION.