The latest phase of the Post Office Horizon IT Inquiry saw the shaming of ministers, civil servants, Post Office executives, Fujitsu bosses, and lawyers. The inquiry, two years in, has heard from 267 individuals and received written evidence from 229 more. It has covered a period of over 20 years, with only one phase remaining, scheduled to start in late September.
The recent phase condensed two phases into a 16-week period, featuring oral evidence from 66 individuals, including former ministers and executives. Key figures like Alan Bates, a former subpostmaster turned knight, played a significant role in the inquiry. Bates had refused to participate in the inquiry initially but later became a crucial figure in its establishment as a statutory public inquiry.
The inquiry delved into complex issues related to the Horizon scandal, examining forensic investigations, legal proceedings, and the organization’s response to the crisis. Former executives like David Smith and Paula Vennells faced scrutiny for their roles in the scandal, with revelations about cover-ups and misleading statements coming to light.
The inquiry also highlighted the role of civil servants and their failures in overseeing the Post Office. Ministers like Pat McFadden, Lucy Neville-Rolfe, and others recounted their struggles in getting answers from officials, who were accused of being uncooperative and lacking transparency.
The phase also saw the involvement of external experts like Second Sight and legal professionals, shedding light on the extent of the cover-up and misconduct within the Post Office. The inquiry uncovered instances of misleading statements, cover-ups, and failures to address concerns raised by subpostmasters.
Overall, the latest phase of the inquiry revealed a deep-rooted culture of dishonesty, negligence, and lack of accountability within the Post Office and its associated organizations. Key individuals like Alan Bates and Gareth Jenkins provided crucial evidence that exposed the extent of the wrongdoing, leading to calls for justice and accountability for the victims of the Horizon scandal.