The Post Office will launch its Trusted Third Party Service, ViaCode, shortly, providing security, authentication and identification for electronic commerce and communications and establishing the infrastructure to allow the Internet to be used with confidence. Because of its trustworthy position, tradition of public service and unparalleled network both of post offices and delivery services throughout the UK, The Post Office is uniquely placed to provide services of this nature, and to help Government achieve its goals for electronic communication with citizen and business, whilst maintaining existing channels for those who want and need them.
Government proposes to introduce legislation dealing with electronic commerce in the near future.
Encryption technology Export and Import Regulations and processes need to be reformed to ensure that the UK is at the very least as business and customer friendly as the US and its European neighbours. If the foundations for a prosperous electronic commerce environment in the UK is not created through the forthcoming and other legislation, the US and the UK's European neighbours will establish themselves as flourishing bases for electronic commerce service providers. Without a climate promoting electronic commerce in the UK, its consumers and businesses could be sidelined in the new and exciting global electronic commerce marketplace. The Post Office intends to be at the forefront of providing a secure Internet equivalent to paper based post and has made a significant long-term investment to become a major player in the UK and global Internet market. The Post Office intends to become active in various aspects of e-commerce.