Here's what the managing director Google UK said [1]:
Dan CobleyDec 13, 2012+63: Folks. I am very sorry to hear about your poor experiences. I will look into it and get back to you.
Yes, on December 13 he sounded surprised by the flood of complaints on his G+ post and would 'look into it'.
Two days later all he could come up with was a generic apology and a vague commitment to do better:
Dear all, I know that what you are going through is unacceptable and we are all working through the nights and weekends to resolve this issue. Supplies from the manufacturer are scarce and erratic, and our communication has been flawed. I can offer an unreserved apology for our service and communication failures in this process. I am optimistic that we will be able to share some positive news shortly, but I do not want to cause any more disappointment by making a commitment until we are 100% sure we can deliver on it.
I realise that the people who ordered the Nexus 4 so early are among our most committed and loyal users and we are doing all we can to put things right.
I've seen corporates where customers are basically viewed as a nuisance and this is exactly the way they communicate.
[1] https://plus.google.com/113390679691036376988/posts/5GygopdU...