'Lack of respect' as DVLA axes festive dinner

THE DVLA has been accused of showing a "total lack of respect" after the government agency banned its staff from claiming a free Christmas dinner in the run-up to the festive season.

- ROBERT DALLING

In recent years employees have been able to enjoy a Christmas feast with the use of a voucher.

However, this year, a leaked email sent internally to staff details how a review of 'In Year Reward' pots has led to a decision that vouchers previously issued for team Christmas lunches will no longer be available, with the DVLA saying it needs to "ensure responsible use of taxpayers' money."

Staff have labelled the move as a "mistimed slap in the face" and accused the DVLA of not consulting the relevant union about the change before it was confirmed.

One employee, who asked not to be named, said: "It has been customary over the last few years for DVLA in Swansea to give each of their staff a voucher to use against the cost of a Christmas dinner at the onsite cafeteria. This year that is not happening.

"Staff morale wasn't best at the DVLA contact centre and this was just a spectacularly mistimed slap in the face.