Technological unemployment at Royal Mail

This interesting article covers technological unemployment. The Royal Mail, who have been criticised for being too slow to introduce change, has decided to invest in new ‘walk sequences’ machines which will vastly improve efficiency cutting sorting times from hours into minutes. This news will not be well received by the postal union as thousands of jobs will be under threat. Press read more for some questions to go with the article.

Possible questions for your pupils

1. Explain what is meant by technological unemployment.
2. Can you think of any ways the government could help workers who lose their jobs due to the introduction of the machines?
3. Brainstorm ideas for other cost cutting solutions for Royal Mail.