Emergency Legislation to Exonerate Convicted Post Office Managers to be Introduced

Princess Kate's postmaster, Hasmukh Shingadia, has praised Chancellor Rishi Sunak's decision to overturn every Post Office conviction. The emergency legislation, set to be introduced within weeks, will clear the names of more than 700 branch managers who were wrongly convicted in the Horizon IT scandal. Shingadia, who was falsely convicted in 2011, called it "wonderful news" and expressed hope that it will expedite the compensation process.

Calls for Corporate Manslaughter Charges Against Post Office Bosses

However, Members of Parliament are now demanding that corporate manslaughter charges be brought against Post Office bosses in light of the suicides of four accused workers. These workers took their own lives after being falsely charged, and MPs argue that the bosses should be held accountable. The Prime Minister referred to the situation as "one of the greatest miscarriages of justice in our nation's history" and emphasized the need for justice and compensation for the victims.

"Leap Forward" but Fight Not Over, Says Mr. Bates

The real-life inspiration behind ITV's drama "Mr Bates vs the Post Office," who also faced a wrongful conviction, welcomed the decision as "good news." However, he emphasized that the fight is not over for many who are still awaiting compensation. Mr. Bates stressed the importance of seeing the details of the legislation and continuing to push for resolution for all affected individuals.

Princess Kate's Local Postmaster Celebrates the News

Hasmukh Shingadia, who runs the Spar village shop in Upper Bucklebury, Berks, and was Princess Kate's postmaster, described the decision as "wonderful news." He expressed relief for postmasters who have been waiting a long time for justice and the ability to move on from this chapter in their lives. Shingadia hopes that the decision will expedite the compensation process, as he believes the Post Office has been dragging its feet.

Demands for Further Questioning of Post Office Bosses

In addition to the overturned convictions, there are calls for further questioning of Post Office bosses, including former chief Paula Vennells and former postal affairs minister Ed Davey. Hasmukh Shingadia, along with other victims, believe that there are still unanswered questions about what was hidden from them and the public. Shingadia specifically called out Davey, stating that he did not push hard enough to uncover the truth and should surrender his knighthood.