"The five interviewed were investigated and, as a result of the outcome of these investigations, none of them continue to work for Royal Mail." She added: "Royal Mail Group operates a zero tolerance approach to dishonesty and, where there is evidence, we seek to ensure anyone stealing mail is robustly dealt with and brought before the courts. "While the overwhelming majority of all letters posted arrive safely at the correct destination, we remain very vigilant to any risk to the operation, including any threat from criminals outside Royal Mail who target postmen and women to steal mail they are carrying. "It remains the case that the huge majority are scrupulously honest and take great care over the mail entrusted to them." Last October, a Telford postman who stashed away more than 1,700 letters and parcels he should have delivered was ordered to carry out 120 hours' community service.