After more than two decades, what is now known as the Post Office Horizon scandal has become major news. Computer Weekly has played a crucial role in uncovering what has been called the most significant miscarriage of justice in UK history.
In 1999, the UK government, as the sole shareholder of the Post Office, began automating accounting processes at Post Office branches. This involved implementing a centralised computer system from supplier Fujitsu to replace traditional paper-based accounting practices at about 14,000 branches.
However, issues arose when many subpostmasters experienced unexplained accounting shortfalls after the introduction of the Horizon system. Instead of investigating and addressing the problems, the Post Office blamed the branch operators, leading to prosecutions, bankruptcies, and job losses.
The Horizon system was developed by UK company ICL before being acquired by Fujitsu. It allowed subpostmasters and branch workers to input sales on a touchscreen, with automated accounting in the background. It was considered the largest non-military IT project in Europe at the time of its implementation.
Many subpostmasters faced financial ruin and imprisonment due to the system’s errors, leading to a long legal battle for justice. After years of fighting, the High Court case exposed the flaws in the Horizon system and overturned convictions of hundreds of subpostmasters, confirming their innocence.
The Post Office used intimidation tactics to prevent subpostmasters from challenging the Horizon system, including legal action, misinformation, and threats of bankruptcy. Subpostmasters like Alan Bates fought tirelessly to expose the truth, leading to a group action against the Post Office for compensation.
Despite winning the legal battle, most subpostmasters are still waiting for their rightful compensation, and no Post Office or Fujitsu executives have faced consequences for the scandal. The public inquiry chaired by Wyn Williams has revealed the extreme suffering of victims and misconduct within the Post Office.
The impact of the Post Office scandal continues to be felt, with ongoing struggles for justice and accountability for those affected. The recent ITV drama and public outrage have reignited calls for action and reform to ensure such injustices are never repeated.