Royal Mail postmen warned accepting Christmas tips could mean bribery charge

At Christmas time, plenty of Brummies will top their bin workers and posties – but did you know it could constitute a bribe?

The Royal Mail has previously warned staff not to accept Christmas gifts valued at more than £30 for fear of bribery charges.

Royal Mail warned staff they must be careful not to “fall foul of the Bribery Act” in guidance issued on its official website.

The Bribery Act, which came into effect back in 2011, made it illegal to offer or receive bribes, and to fail to prevent bribery.

Royal Mail issued the following advice to workers: “It’s the season of goodwill. But it’s important to be careful about accepting gifts so you don’t fall foul of the Bribery Act.”

“A bribe is not just about money, it could be any gift, hospitality or favour,” it also said.

Royal Mail spokesman Ian McKay said: “It is entirely up to customers if they wish to give a tip to postmen and women at Christmas and to what value.

“Like all other major companies, we take the Bribery Act very seriously and have a duty to clearly communicate to all of our staff what it means for them.

“We have made it absolutely clear to our people that Christmas tips are allowed.”

BirminghamLive readers took to Facebook to reveal if they dished out tips at Christmas.

While some people are happy to offer a tip others keep their money in their pocket for all sorts of reasons.

Yana Smith always gives a gift and posted: “Yes we always give cards and some chocolate.”

Mohammed Sayful Ahmed was another who believes people who offer a service all year deserve to be rewarded.

He said: “Always look after people that provide a service, deserve , yes they deserve a tip.”

Eve Ross said: “I tip both at Christmas always have.”

Linda Watson posted: “Think it’s all depends on service, binmen and the postie are fantastic where I live and deserve a Christmas tip.”

Ceceilia MacCafferty said: “Definitely every year and shop keepers paper boy I’m 84 done it for years.”

Carolyn Chilton said: “I always tip the bin men also the postie when we get a regular one.”