Alan Bates, once considered a “nutter” and a “thief” by the federation representing subpostmasters for his campaign against the Post Office’s Horizon IT system, has now been honored for his efforts. Bates, who previously had to sleep in a tent at a National Federation of Subpostmasters event due to financial difficulties, is now receiving a knighthood for his quarter-century long fight for justice regarding the Horizon scandal.
Bates’ campaigning efforts brought attention to the scandal that caused financial ruin, wrongful imprisonment, and even suicides within the subpostmaster community in the UK. His dedication to the cause led to significant changes, including the stripping of former Post Office CEO Paula Vennells’ CBE. Bates hopes that his knighthood will strengthen the ongoing campaign for financial redress for the victims of the Horizon scandal.
Despite facing ridicule and dismissal from those who should have supported his cause, Bates continued his fight for justice. His formation of the Justice for Subpostmasters Alliance in 2009, following Computer Weekly’s revelations of issues with the Horizon system, ultimately led to a successful lawsuit against the Post Office and the overturning of wrongful convictions. His perseverance and dedication to seeking justice for subpostmasters affected by the scandal have been recognized and applauded.