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The Government are providing compensation to postmasters whose convictions were quashed due to evidence from the Post Office Horizon IT system. The House is well aware of the distressing impact these events have had on postmasters and their families, and interim payments of up to £100,000 have been made to 50 affected individuals so far. Full and final settlements are now being negotiated through alternative dispute resolution processes.
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The Labour MP acknowledges the scandal's impact but seeks clarity on compensation eligibility for those involved in civil cases, the total number of expected settlements, the effect on Post Office funding, accountability for those responsible for initial mistakes, and the timescale for the Post Office Horizon IT inquiry findings.
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Asked the Minister to reflect on the Post Office's use of public money in overwhelming honest postmasters and postmistresses, leading to massive legal fees. Questioned why it took so long for the Government to acknowledge the wrongdoing and asked about measures to hold accountable those responsible.
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Welcomed the Minister's announcement but stressed that Post Office losses from former postmasters’ class action should not impact postmaster pay. Raised concerns over previous Ministers' roles in the scandal and called for full compensation to be paid by the UK Government without impacting postmasters further.
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Complained that those who orchestrated the miscarriage of justice have not been held accountable, while acknowledging the current Minister's efforts. Questioned why 555 sub-postmasters are not equally compensated despite their role in exposing wrongdoing.
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Acknowledged his long-standing involvement and criticised the Post Office for using public money to force settlements, leaving many without full compensation despite paying back stolen funds that were never missing.
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Called on the Minister to ensure a proper apology from the Post Office and prompt, generous payment of compensation.
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Asked how many people are expected to receive compensation given that only 66 out of around 555 have made applications so far. Highlighted the mental health impacts on those affected.
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Highlighted the Post Office's culture of denial and called for an assurance that steps are being taken to change this culture. Emphasised the need for swift payments.
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Asked what measures are being taken to ensure a scandal like this cannot happen again, questioning the technology assumptions that led to criminalising postmasters.
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The Horizon scandal has ruined many lives, and while the House welcomes the Government stepping in for compensation, past experiences with other compensation schemes raise concerns about arbitrary Treasury rules limiting compensation. The emotional and social damage must be considered.
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Questions Alan Cook's role given his history of prosecuting sub-postmasters and the subsequent convictions. Seeks clarity on how many will receive compensation and whether Alan Cook should still hold his position at Liverpool Victoria.
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Inquires about redress, support, and compensation for constituents who were part of civil proceedings against Post Office Ltd in 2018-19 but excluded from current schemes. Asks what these litigants deserve.
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Welcomes the interim payments announcement but stresses the need for significant cultural and organisational changes at the Post Office to rebuild trust with postmasters and prevent similar issues in the future.
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Reflects on harrowing testimonies from Select Committee sessions regarding sub-postmaster hardships. Acknowledges interim compensation but questions whether Government should have intervened earlier, seeking clarity on improvements to ensure such situations are not repeated.
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Praises the Minister's efforts and support for postmasters affected by the Horizon scandal. Asks about caps on full compensation amounts and timelines for final settlements.