ROYAL MAIL HAS admitted to withholding local people’s letters causing a delay to the arrival of Christmas cards as well as vital letters like hospital appointments.
West Worcestershire MP Dame Harriett Baldwin has received dozens of complaints from constituents over recent months as people have noticed a reduced frequency of letter deliveries across areas of Malvern, Upton-upon-Severn and Tenbury Wells.
After repeatedly raising concerns with Royal Mail management, Dame Harriett has been told that staff sickness and overwhelming demand for parcels have led to a diminished service meaning that parcels are being prioritised for delivery.
Dame Harriett said: “We all appreciate our hardworking local posties, especially over the busy Christmas period.
“However, for many weeks now I have heard from constituents who are not receiving their hospital appointment reminders, magazine subscriptions or Christmas cards in a timely manner.
“I have called on Royal Mail to review how it resources its local operations as this problem appears to be becoming more and more widespread and risks ruining Christmas for my constituents.
“The cost of stamps went up again this year and it has been worrying to hear anecdotes of understaffing, contingency working and delivery offices prioritising tracked parcels at the expense of letters.
“I remind the new owners of Royal Mail of their Universal Service Obligation that requires them to provide reliable deliveries, and Ofcom has the power to fine them for breaches.”