Review of Post Office Prosecution Powers

UK Chancellor Rishi Sunak has confirmed that postmasters who were wrongfully treated in the Horizon IT scandal could receive a blanket exoneration. The Post Office is currently embroiled in a scandal that saw innocent people prosecuted due to faulty accounting software. In response, Sunak has announced a review of the Post Office's prosecution powers.

Justice for Wrongfully Treated Postmasters

Sunak appeared on the BBC's Sunday With Laura Kuenssberg program to discuss the situation. He condemned the "appalling miscarriage of justice" and stressed the importance of ensuring that affected postmasters receive the justice they deserve. The government is considering the option of exonerating all postmasters involved in the scandal.

Overturned Convictions and Compensation Schemes

In 2021, 39 postmasters had their convictions overturned after winning their cases at the Court of Appeal. The government has already paid out approximately £150 million in compensation to thousands of people. Sunak emphasized the need to expedite the compensation process, with interim payments of up to £600,000 available. He encouraged affected individuals to come forward and take advantage of the three different compensation schemes.

Faulty Fujitsu Accounting Software

Over 700 Post Office branch managers were wrongfully convicted based on faulty Fujitsu accounting software called Horizon. The software made it appear as though money was missing from their outlets. Sub-postmasters were forced to declare bankruptcy, pay large sums out of their own pockets, sell their homes, and some even served time in prison.

Metropolitan Police Investigates Fraud Offences

The Metropolitan Police has launched an investigation into whether fraud offences were committed in relation to the handling of the scandal. The focus of the investigation is the money clawed back as a result of prosecutions and civil action. It remains unclear whether the probe targets individual staff or the corporate entity of the Post Office.

ITV Drama Depicts the Scandal

The scandal has inspired an ITV drama called "Mr Bates Vs The Post Office," starring Toby Jones.