Commons Sense

House of Commons · Bill Debate

Post Office Compensation Bill - New Clause 1

19 December 2023 · 6 other contributors

Opened by Kevan Jones Lab Bishop Auckland

Justice & CourtsStandards & Ethics

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Kevan Jones raised concerns about post office compensation bill - new clause 1 in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.

Key points

  • Mr Jones proposes new clause 1 to provide compensation for all those with overturned convictions and extend it to those who have not had their convictions overturned.
  • He cites cases like Paula Vennells to highlight the injustice of prosecuting individuals based on a flawed system.
  • Only 93 out of 700 Post Office cases have been overturned, raising concerns about disparity in compensation.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Kevan Jones Lab Bishop Auckland

Mr Jones proposes new clause 1 to provide compensation for all those with overturned convictions and extend it to those who have not had their convictions overturned. He emphasises the injustice of prosecuting individuals based on a flawed system, citing cases like Paula Vennells where individuals were wrongly prosecuted despite known issues with the Horizon system. He argues that only 93 out of 700 Post Office cases have been overturned and raises concerns about public interest cases receiving lower compensation. The clause seeks to address this disparity and ensure all affected parties receive fair compensation.

Other contributors (6)
  • Kevan Jones Lab Bishop Auckland

    Argues that new clause 1 would provide equal compensation for those with overturned convictions and extend it to individuals not yet exonerated. Cites cases of wrongful prosecution, emphasises the injustice faced by victims, and raises concerns about lower compensation for public interest cases.

  • Rushanara Ali Lab Bethnal Green and Stepney

    Supports the new clause, highlighting that many sub-postmasters’ convictions were based on false evidence or guilty pleas advised for reduced sentences. The amendment is crucial to ensure government support for those who cannot face legal processes due to trauma.

  • Kevin Hollinrake Con Thirsk and Malton

    Acknowledges concerns but argues that the current eligibility criteria depend on convictions being overturned. The prosecution applies a two-part test in Crown court appeals, and guilty pleas are not barriers to overturning. He highlights proactive measures by the Post Office for encouraging appeals.

  • Nigel Evans

    Asked whether the lead MP would press the new clause to a vote, indicating no intention after assurances given.

  • Kevan Jones Lab Durham North

    Welcomed the Bill's passage, thanked the Minister and advisory board members for their work in ensuring compensation for overturned convictions. Highlighted the need to ensure that people receive deserved compensation and answers through the system. Pledged support for officials involved in the process. Wished everyone a Merry Christmas and hoped for a conclusion to Sir Wyn Williams’s review in 2024.

  • Nigel Evans Con Redditch

    Expressed gratitude towards all those working in Parliament, acknowledging their support and services throughout the year. Wished everyone a very merry Christmas and a happy new year, while also wishing for hope in 2024 despite a less fruitful year with regards to personal aspirations.

▸ Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy