Sunak to “exonerate” postmasters connected to Horizon controversy

The government is considering the idea of clearing the names of all postmasters who were part of the Horizon scandal.

Over 700 Post Office branch managers were found guilty of crimes because a computer mistake made it look like money was gone from their stores.

The problem has become important again after a TV show called Mr. Bates vs the Post Office aired. The Metropolitan Police have said they are now investigating the Post Office for criminal activities just days after the show.

Rishi Sunak told the media that the justice secretary is considering clearing all postmasters involved in the scandal.

He was asked if the government would take away the Post Office’s power to investigate and punish people. He said, ‘The justice secretary is thinking about this and it wouldn’t be right to make a decision before that. There is legal complexity but he is looking at these areas.

‘Everyone is very surprised and upset by the things that have happened recently. It is a terrible mistake in the justice system. ’

It happened in the 90s, but now we can see and hear about it again. It was a terrible mistake that hurt a lot of people, and it’s important that they get the justice they deserve. Compensation schemes are meant to help them get that justice.

The government has given £150 million to thousands of people so far.

‘We want to give the money to people as soon as we can, so we can make interim payments of up to £600,000. ’

‘There are three options to choose from and if you are impacted, you should speak up. ‘

At the same time, people affected by the Horizon scandal feel very upset and say it has been very difficult to get the money they should have received.

Lee Castleton used to be in charge of a small post office, but he has gone broke because he had to go to court and was told to pay a lot of money.

He said: “The victims are very upset and scared. ” It has been 25 years and £135 million has been given to some of the victims, but we have also paid over £150 million to lawyers.

“These lawyers are being very demanding and it’s tough. ” The plans are hard.

‘We are just regular people. ‘ We have lawyers on our side, but it’s really tough and feels like a battle.

“Why would the Post Office and DBT be responsible for compensating the victims. “