MPs have been discussing the potential job losses expected as part of Royal Mail modernistaion plans.

At Commons question time, Business Minister Pat McFadden said both Unions and Royal Mail management recognised that staff cuts were inevitable.

Labour MP John Robertson said he was disappointed that Mr McFadden was not taking a more active role in talks between the two sides.

Mr McFadden also pointed out that the Government had invested a lot of money in the state owned postal company, but the multi-billion pound pension deficit was an issue for Royal Mail to tackle.

The Government ditched plans for a state bail out in face of opposition from Labour MPs and the Communication Workers Union.