Innovation_DPD

DPD is to launch an "extensive" consultation of its employment and working condition arrangements across its network of drivers and depots.

The carrier came under fire earlier this week after The Guardian reported it had fined a diabetic driver for missing his round when he had been attending a medical appointment, who later died of the disease.

DPD said it had, incorrectly, issued the fine to Don Lane, who had worked at the business for 19 years, but that it had been a mistake for which it was "profoundly sorry".

DPD CEO Dwain McDonald said: "No one should ever be made to feel like they are unable to attend appointments relating to their health.

"Like all companies, we need to learn from our mistakes. As a result, we are carrying out an extensive consultation with our depots and drivers as part of a strategic review of our arrangements.

"When we have completed the consultation and collected all the feedback, we will be making further announcements."

McDonald added that he would ensure no more employees were charged for attending healthcare appointments in the meantime.

The Guardian's report from 5 February suggests before he died, Lane had missed medical appointments to avoid further fines.