Royal Mail takeover and fine: Eastleigh MP slams mismanagement for late deliveries in Eastleigh

Liz Jarvis MP, has called out “blatant mismanagement” for causing repeated delays in postal delivery across the area, calling for the new owner to put services for communities first.

Ofcom’s fine is almost double last year’s, which was issued due to similar problems. It comes as more than a quarter of all first-class mail arrived late in the year to March 2024.

The incoming new owner has promised to keep the institution’s HQ in the UK for five years, prompting concerns that he may not honour that commitment after five years. 

Liz Jarvis MP said that “it’s clear that, despite the incredible work of our local postal workers, people across our community are being badly let down - from NHS patients waiting for appointments to families sending Christmas cards and presents.” They have called on the new ownership to “work day and night” to turn the situation in Eastleigh around.

Liz Jarvis, MP for Eastleigh, said:

“Thousands of us across Eastleigh depend on Royal Mail services every single day. It’s clear that, despite the incredible work of our local postal workers, people across our community are being badly let down - from NHS patients waiting for appointments to families sending Christmas cards and presents.

“It’s extremely disappointing that Royal Mail has been found in breach of its delivery targets. It’s even more concerning that this British institution may not remain permanently based in the UK, and that the watering down of services is still on the table. 

“Royal Mail’s incoming owner and management must work day and night to turn things around for communities like ours, so that people get the service they deserve. I’ll be following this situation very closely. Ministers and Royal Mail executives must be held to account so that local communities come first.”