MPs to probe scandal of rip-off delivery charges

RIP-Off delivery charges forced on rural parts of Scotland are to be investigated by a powerful Westminster committee.

The Scottish Affairs Committee has said it will look into charges imposed on customers in many parts of the Highlands, as well as other remote areas, at a special meeting next month.

It will examine how prevalent higher delivery charges are in Scotland and which areas are most affected, before looking at what can be done to abolish the excessive fees.

Committee chairman Pete Wishart said: ‘High charges and lengthy delivery times are yet another thing that makes it just that little bit harder for people and businesses outside the major population centres in Scotland.

‘If you are paying £15 more to get something delivered and having to wait three more days to receive it then it makes a real difference to whether your business is competitive or not.

‘We have launched this inquiry to understand how there can be such a disparity in service between different areas.’

Richard Lochhead, Nationalist MSP for Moray, has campaigned for an end to the charges. He said: ‘This is a welcome development – this issue impacts on millions of people across Scotland and it is only right that it is given this level of parliamentary scrutiny.

‘Companies need to explain why they pursue such clearly misleading policies and promotions, but the UK Government must also begin taking action.’

Mr Lochhead highlighted the pledge by online retailer Amazon to probe delivery surcharges imposed by some firms selling on its site.

He said: ‘I’m pleased Amazon have offered to work with me to address the issues highlighted by my campaign.

‘I hope that given the Scottish Affairs Committee is also now scrutinising these rip-off surcharges, more companies will decide to end their unfair and misleading practices.’