UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has declared the introduction of new legislation aimed at ensuring swift exoneration and compensation for individuals wrongly convicted in the Horizon scandal. This announcement was made during the first Prime Minister’s Questions (PMQs) of the year.
The proposed legislation, which is expected to take several weeks to implement, is a response to the injustices faced by over 700 sub-postmasters and sub-postmistresses. They were prosecuted based on erroneous accounting data from the faulty Horizon software. The postal affairs minister indicated that upfront compensation of £75,000 will be awarded to the 555 postmasters who participated in the 2019 High Court group litigation.
The government’s decision to act follows increased public attention on the scandal, partly driven by the ITV drama “Mr Bates Vs The Post Office.” Once exonerated, the victims are eligible for at least £600,000 in compensation, depending on individual circumstances. This scheme is applicable to victims in England and Wales.
In a statement to the House of Commons, Mr. Sunak described the Horizon scandal as one of the greatest miscarriages of justice in the nation’s history, emphasizing the need for justice and compensation for the victims. He mentioned that Sir Wyn Williams’ inquiry is playing a crucial role in uncovering the truth behind the scandal.
The government aims to introduce the legislation within weeks and complete compensation payouts by the end of the year. Kevin Hollinrake, the postal minister, detailed the government’s plan, stating that claimants would need to sign a statement of truth asserting their innocence. This approach aims to be proportionate and respectful of the victims’ ordeals.
The process of overturning the convictions, including potential appeals and legislative actions, is under consideration. Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer welcomed the Prime Minister’s proposal, emphasizing the importance of delivering justice to those who have suffered immense losses due to the scandal.
In 2019, the Post Office agreed to a £58m settlement with 555 sub-postmasters and sub-mistresses, and the government later announced a £600,000 compensation offer for every wrongly convicted individual.
