ALEXANDER SLAMS EXCESSIVE DELIVERY CHARGES IN THE HIGHLANDS AND ISLANDS

11.14.00am GMT Tue 9th Dec 2008

Danny Alexander, MP for Inverness, Nairn, Badenoch and Strathspey, has tabled a motion in the House of Commons deploring the excessive delivery charges levied by many companies on parcels sent to the Highlands and Islands.

In the run up to Christmas, the excess charges applied by some mail order and internet companies on deliveries in the Highlands are adding to the costs of Christmas.

The Early Day Motion, which is supported by fellow Highlands and Islands Liberal Democrats Charles Kennedy, Alistair Carmichael and John Thurso, calls on the Government to prohibit companies from refusing to deliver to all of the UK and place an obligation on these firms to use the most affordable delivery method when it is requested by customers.

Commenting Mr Alexander said -

"Inflated delivery charges to the Highlands by companies are wrong at any time of year - but in the run up to Christmas are a totally unfair extra burden on Highland families.

"The fact that some companies refuse to deliver to our area, or will only do so at an inflated cost is outrageous when the Royal Mail is able to deliver goods at a standard rate across the UK. We are calling on the government to prevent firms refusing to deliver to the Highlands and Islands and to make them use the most affordable option.

"With many Highland families struggling under real financial pressures in a recession, this is a small step that could be taken to stop festive profiteering by some. Santa is able to deliver equally to all parts of Britain, and the same should apply to presents delivered by parcel."