Yes, I'm told that whoever was responsible for supply underestimated demand, so
that people may have obtained them without difficulty in early March, but by
the end of the month stocks had run out.
(info. from a friend, former post office counter staff, who takes a close
interest in the business).
Wonder why, were they expecting a severe Winter to reduce our ranks?
Incidentally, the passes are not available from all post offices. First time I
got mine, last year, I tried handing in the form in Hammersmith near where I
was working, but was told it had to be at an office in the same borough as
where I live. I next called at the sub PO in my own road, and they told me they
do not do them - maybe it's because they are due for closure. So I had to go to
the next nearest office, a bus ride away.
Since the new cards ran out most staff do seem to be accepting the old ones for
the time being, though of course you have to count on someone being on hand to
let you through the tube barrier. The response is so immediate I'd say it's
further indication there's a widespread problem and they know about it. But the
other morning a bus driver did ask "Haven't you got the new one, then?", and I
had to enlighten him on the matter.
Mind you, the morning before a driver said I couldn't use my pass before 9.00.
I think he was wrong, and that rule only applies on tubes and rail, not buses
anymore, but as I was in a rush and so presumably were the other passengers, I
didn't prolong the argument and paid (it was only a quid anyway).
OK, so I've become a "Twirly"!