A HAMPSHIRE MP has today called on the Royal Mail to abandon proposals for the introduction of zonal postal surcharges.

The Post Office is looking at charging more for people using the service in the countryside.

Currently all those using Royal Mail pay the same rate irrespective of where mail is posted.

Under the new proposals, currently under review by Postcomm, the price of sending bulk mail in rural areas will increase considerably. Rural areas will be specifically targeted with higher postage costs.

Winchester MP Mark Oaten said: "The proposed Royal Mail charges, if accepted, will have a serious impact on my constituents. Rural areas will suffer from the price hikes and I think it is unfair to impose higher costs on those living outside urban areas."

"Although the new charges only target bulk mail they will still have a detrimental effect on local rural businesses."