Post Office Chair Alleges Government Interference in Compensation Delay
Removal of Henry Staunton
Business Secretary Kemi Badenoch recently ousted Henry Staunton from his position as the chair of the Post Office, a role he held since December 2022.
The Horizon Scandal Impact
The Horizon IT system caused distress to numerous Post Office workers by falsely indicating money discrepancies in their branches, leading to wrongful accusations against postmasters who were then held accountable for the financial shortfalls. Over 900 postmasters were convicted, with some even imprisoned.
Compensation Challenges
Approximately £160 million has been paid out in compensation to 2,700 individuals through three separate schemes, averaging £59,000 per claimant. However, victims have raised concerns about the bureaucratic nature of the process, citing delays and complexity.
Former Chair’s Perspective
In an interview with the Sunday Times, Mr. Staunton proposed that each wronged sub-postmaster should receive £1 million in compensation. He criticized the current schemes as bureaucratic, pedantic, unhelpful, and unsympathetic, suggesting that the government was deliberately hindering compensation efforts.
Allegations of Government Meddling
Staunton disclosed that a senior civil servant advised him to delay compensation payouts and Horizon system replacements until after the election, using the term “limp” to describe the strategy. He expressed his refusal to partake in such actions, emphasizing the unfair treatment of postmasters.
Victims’ Voices
Former sub-postmaster Michael Rudkin accused government officials of suffocating sub-postmasters, urging for accountability at the ballot box to rectify the injustice faced by victims of the scandal.
Government Response
In response to Staunton’s claims, the Government denied any interference and affirmed its commitment to accelerating compensation processes for victims. A government spokesperson rebuffed the allegations, asserting that the administration has consistently supported postmasters in their claims for justice.
Rejection of Compensation Offer
Alan Bates rejected the government’s compensation offer as “cruel” and “derisory,” citing it as significantly below his requested amount. Bates, a former sub-postmaster, showcased his struggle for justice in the ITV drama “Mr Bates Vs The Post Office.”
FAQs
1. What was the Horizon IT system scandal?
The Horizon IT system falsely indicated money shortfalls in Post Office branches, leading to wrongful accusations against postmasters and subsequent convictions.
2. How much compensation has been paid out so far?
Approximately £160 million has been distributed to 2,700 victims through three compensation schemes, averaging £59,000 per claimant.
3. What did Henry Staunton propose regarding compensation for wronged sub-postmasters?
Staunton suggested that each affected sub-postmaster should receive £1 million in compensation for the ordeal they endured.
4. What challenges have victims faced in the compensation process?
Victims have criticized the compensation schemes for being bureaucratic, pedantic, unhelpful, and unsympathetic, highlighting delays and complexities in the claims process.
5. How did the Government respond to the allegations of interference?
The Government refuted the claims of interference, stating that they have expedited compensation efforts and supported postmasters in seeking justice, dismissing any contrary actions or conversations.
6. How did Alan Bates react to the compensation offer from the Government?
Alan Bates rejected the compensation offer, describing it as “cruel” and “derisory,” as it fell significantly short of his requested amount.
