Post Office response to BBC Panorama, 25 April 2022

In response to a BBC Panorama programme (Monday 25 April 2022), entitled 'The Post Office Scandal, a Post Office spokesperson said:

“We are sincerely sorry for the impact of the Horizon Scandal on the lives of victims and their families. We are in no doubt about the human cost.

“Whilst we cannot change the past, we have taken determined action to ensure that justice is provided for people affected, together with full, fair and final compensation.

“We have provided swift financial relief with interim payments of up to £100,000 to the overwhelming majority of the 73 people who have had convictions overturned, ahead of final settlements.

“Separately, for other postmasters, we have made compensation offers to more than half who applied to the Historical Shortfall Scheme, and of those the majority have already been accepted and paid. Offers and payments continue to be made every week.

“The victims and the public have every right to expect accountability for what went wrong in the years followings the introduction of the original Horizon computer system in 1999.

“That’s why the statutory inquiry, led by Sir Wyn Williams, is gathering comprehensive evidence that should provide a full assessment of what happened.

“Post Office is cooperating fully, openly and transparently with the vital work of the Inquiry.

“Past failings can never be repeated, and we are making fundamental reforms to our operations and culture to forge a new business relationship with current postmasters. This includes two serving postmasters appointed as Non-Executive Directors on the Post Office Board.”

For more information on the progress of appeals and compensation for overturned convictions please visit https://corporate.postoffice.co.uk/en/historical-matters/historical-matters-progress/historical-convictions-and-compensation-information-on-progress/

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