The Justice Secretary and judges meet to address the Horizon scandal
The Justice Secretary is meeting with judges today to discuss the fast-tracking of appeals for hundreds of victims of the Post Office scandal. So far, only 93 out of over 700 convictions have been overturned, leading to calls for a blanket exoneration.
Government ministers under pressure to provide compensation
Cabinet Minister Mel Stride has stated that the Justice Secretary is meeting with senior justice system members to expedite and accelerate appeals. He emphasized the importance of this action due to the financial, mental health, and community impact suffered by the wrongfully convicted sub-postmasters.
Plans to fast-track appeals and compensation
Last night, Postal Affairs Minister Kevin Hollinrake announced plans to fast-track appeals and compensation for the 750 Post Office workers who received criminal convictions. Hollinrake pledged to compensate every victim, stating that the government has a clear moral duty to act.
Support for investigation into ex-Post Office boss
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has expressed his strong support for an investigation by the honours committee into the CBE given to former Post Office boss Paula Vennells. This announcement comes as ministers discuss options such as new legislation and the removal of the Post Office's prosecution powers to help clear the names of the wrongfully convicted sub-postmasters.
Scandal background
Over 700 branch managers were convicted due to faulty Horizon IT software, which falsely indicated missing money. The recent airing of ITV's drama "Mr Bates vs The Post Office" has reignited public outrage over the scandal. The overturning of convictions is seen as crucial to unlocking compensation for the victims.
One million signatures to strip ex-Post Office boss of CBE
A petition to strip Paula Vennells of her CBE has garnered one million signatures. Additionally, there are renewed questions for Lib Dem leader Sir Ed Davey regarding his role as postal affairs minister during the scandal, as well as for Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer, who was director of public prosecutions at the time.
