Postal Workers Accuse Royal Mail of Prioritizing Parcels Over Essential Letters
Postal workers have accused the Royal Mail of misleading the public, alleging that the company is giving precedence to lucrative parcels over critical letters.
Despite denials from a senior executive, posties claim households are experiencing delays in receiving vital letters while trivial packages are prioritized.
Claims and Counterclaims: Royal Mail’s Denial and Postmen’s Rebuttal
A depot manager allegedly directed posties to prioritize parcels over letters, contradicting Royal Mail’s assertion of not favoring parcels.
An anonymous south-east postman expressed frustration, highlighting the conflict between the company’s directives and the imperative to deliver essential Christmas mail.
Company Stance and Worker Discontent: Conflicting Perspectives
Royal Mail’s Chief Commercial Officer, Nick Landon, dismissed allegations of parcel prioritization, citing the global decline in letters and the increasing demand for parcels. Postal workers argue that depot managers’ emphasis on swift delivery of tracked parcels has resulted in neglecting their obligation to deliver letters promptly.
Legal Obligations vs. Logistical Challenges: Universal Service Obligation Struggles
Under the Universal Service Obligation, Royal Mail is mandated to deliver letters six days a week and parcels five days a week.
However, workers claim difficulties in meeting this obligation, asserting that managerial focus on parcel efficiency compromises timely letter delivery.
Royal Mail’s Response and Government Reaction: Balancing Network Challenges
Royal Mail stated its commitment to delivering both letters and parcels promptly, acknowledging logistical challenges during peak times like Christmas.
Meanwhile, the government acknowledged the struggles of postal workers and highlighted efforts to address past injustices, particularly related to the Horizon scandal affecting postmasters.
Horizon Scandal: Calls to Overturn Convictions and Ensure Justice
An advisory board recommended overturning convictions of all Post Office staff implicated in the Horizon scandal, acknowledging the wrongful accusations due to faulty software.
The compensation advisory group advocated for quashing convictions of over 900 individuals affected by the scandal, emphasizing the importance of rectifying past injustices.