Somerset MP calls for Royal Mail fine over worsening delays

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 16 Oct, 06:08 · Archive

A Somerset MP is calling for regulator Ofcom to fine Royal Mail millions of pounds over continuing postal delays in Bridgwater.

Conservative MP Ashley Fox has called for regulator Ofcom to investigate Royal Mail and potentially fine it many millions of pounds over continuing postal delays in Bridgwater, Somerset. Residents have reportedly faced waits of three or four weeks for post, with delays affecting important items including passports, bank cards and NHS appointment letters. Some residents have travelled to Bridgwater Delivery Office to queue in an attempt to retrieve missing post.

Mr Fox said the problems have worsened despite assurances he received from Royal Mail after meeting its regional director in the first week of September. He said: "Well, here we are five weeks later, they have not put things right. If anything, things are worse." At that earlier meeting, he was told the Bridgwater operation was 17 staff short, and that measures would be taken to improve the situation, including bringing in temporary workers and redeploying staff from other offices.

Meanwhile, workers at Bridgwater Postal Depot have spoken out over "impossible" workload expectations. Royal Mail said it takes local concerns seriously, continues to deliver mail across Bridgwater every day and is actively recruiting more staff. Mr Fox is now pushing for Ofcom to investigate whether Royal Mail is meeting its universal service obligations and to impose significant financial penalties if it has breached them.

How it is being reported

• Calls for Royal Mail to be fined 'many millions of pounds' over Somerset delaysSomerset MP Ashley Fox says the delivery delay "chaos" has worsened despite previous assurances, and wants the regulator to take actionSomerset County Gazette · 16 Oct, 05:00
• Calls for Royal Mail to be fined 'many millions of pounds' over Somerset delaysSomerset MP Ashley Fox says the delivery delay "chaos" has worsened despite previous assurances, and wants the regulator to take actionBridgwater Mercury · 16 Oct, 05:00

In this story: Ashley Fox · Royal Mail · Ofcom · Bridgwater · Somerset

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