Michael Fabricant has asked the Royal Mail to delay the implementation of
post code changes which will affect parts of Burntwood with the WS7 8
postcode. In a letter to Brian Davies, Manager of the Address Management
Centre in Shrewsbury, Michael has said:

"My main concern is that constituents and businesses in the area should be
given as much warning as possible about the changes. I believe that if
changes are likely to come into effect as early as April 2003, this is
insufficient time to enable householders and businesses to make appropriate
changes without incurring extra costs. Business customers will need time
to use up stocks of stationery and promotional materials.

"I do appreciate that there will be a 12 month transitional period during
which the old address will continue to be valid, but I would be grateful if
you would put back the date to January 2004 when these proposals are likely
to be implemented."

The post code changes will affect householders and businesses with postcodes
beginning WS7 8. The Royal Mail plan to make the change in April 2003 with
an overlap of about 12 months when both the old and new codes can be used.
Michael Fabricant has asked that these changes be put back until at least
2004.

When the changes are finally agreed, the Royal Mail will write to everyone
affected advising them of their new postal addresses.