Communication breakdown

Sir, - How often have we tried to communicate with those employed as our civil servants in local government or state agencies, only to realise that these officials do not intend to take any notice nor answer a legitimate question? The usual response is I

Sir, - How often have we tried to communicate with those employed as our civil servants in local government or state agencies, only to realise that these officials do not intend to take any notice nor answer a legitimate question?

The usual response is "It's not my job, try someone else!" or "The person you want is on holiday/off sick/in a meeting/on a course, has left the job/no replacement exists, etc." Hardly encouraging, is it?

Even if it is possible to find someone who will admit responsibility, or agree to talk to you (NOT by e-mail...) it is unlikely to produce much of a result, as we may be told that the Data-protection Act prohibits disclosure of facts to the public (who pay for the data to be collected) or else there was a time limit to raise this matter, which has passed.

If by some chance, the correct person is identified and still working and shows some interest, action could possibly happen, eventually!

But what if the matter is urgent, and time presses for your attention? Local authorities vie with utility companies and other Agencies to do nothing for as long as possible - claiming lack of funds, equipment or staff as necessary to avoid the task.

Rarely can we expect much reaction to polite requests, or we could be accused of harassing council employees. If serious consequences did occur due to a lack of a proper response, who would be to blame?

If asked for help, please pass on the message. It just might be important.

Actually, Herts Highways, I'm still waiting for a reply two months later!

Ken Peak

Richardson Close

London Colney