A new investigation is set to review numerous prosecutions of subpostmasters by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). The DWP faced criticism for prosecuting around 100 individuals between 2001 and 2006 amid the Horizon IT scandal, resulting in 61 convictions. Allegations of welfare-related fraud were the basis for these prosecutions, with many claiming they were forced to settle discrepancies caused by a faulty computer system. The DWP has announced an “independent assurance review” to scrutinize its handling of these cases.
The Post Office also faced a similar ordeal with hundreds of postmasters and staff prosecuted due to erroneous software suggesting money discrepancies in their branches. Last January, over 700 wrongful convictions by the Post Office were overturned, revealing the devastating impact on individuals, with at least 13 reported suicides. Public outrage escalated following the broadcast of the ITV drama “Mr Bates vs The Post Office,” shedding light on the victims’ traumatic experiences.
The DWP’s involvement in joint investigations with the Post Office raised concerns, prompting a reevaluation of its actions. Labour peer Lord Sikka criticized the lack of transparency in the DWP prosecutions of postmasters. The DWP has vowed to conduct an independent review focusing on the evidence gathered during the Horizon scandal and the adequacy of documentation efforts.
While the review will not assess individual cases, it aims to shed light on the overall handling of the prosecutions. Cases were centered around stolen pension dockets, leading to wrongful convictions like that of Holly, who served time for theft she believes she did not commit. Another victim, Roger Allen, was convicted by the DWP for pension payment theft and served a jail sentence. His family continues to advocate for his exoneration despite his passing.
Sir Wyn Williams, chair of the Horizon IT Inquiry, highlighted the Post Office’s negligence in addressing the faulty software’s potential for false data. He recommended compensation for affected postmasters and their families, recognizing them as victims of the Post Office and Fujitsu’s misconduct. The inquiry also revealed the tragic toll of the scandal, with multiple suicides and suicide attempts among those affected.
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