Article by John Ellis FIAP Cmpn, FRSA, MBCS

Over the last 5 or 6 years, I have followed the scandal that has rocked the very foundations of what we call civil society. The prosecution of innocent people to hide the fiasco of the Horizon system. In turn protecting all those involved in institutions that we, the public believed to be trustworthy. From Post Office senior management, Fujitsu management and staff, and even Ministers of the Crown, over a period of 20 years and more, they failed not just the sub-postmasters, but the British people.

Earlier this year, the drama, Mr Bates VS the Post Office, aired on UK TV and showed not just the UK, but the world, how innocent people were lied to, prosecuted, fined, bankrupted, sent to prison and some even died. These people lost their livelihoods, friends and families. All to protect a lie.

Last night at the National TV Awards, the drama, won 3 awards,

• Toby Jones won Best Drama Performance
• Mr Bates VS the Post Office won Best New Drama
• Mr Bates VS the Post Office won the Impact Award

It was Jo Hamilton, a former sub-postmaster, who told the audience last night, that of the 555 original sub-postmasters, who have now had their convictions quashed, nearly 300 of them have yet to receive compensation. This includes Alan Bates himself. Jo also said, that while she had met the new minister, nothing had changed. She also said, that when Alan Bates returns, a new campaign will begin.

What I personally find unbelievable is, that after all this time, it seems both the Government (previous and current) and the Post Office are dragging their heels, slowing down the claim and payment process. They seem to also be making it difficult for the victims, where they are having to prove what they lost and provide lots of paper records. This is followed with counter claims and manoeuvrings by the state and its agents, to attempt to reduce the amount to be paid out. They need to understand, this is not about the state saving money, this is about being fair and compensating victims properly.

On a final positive note; Congratulations to all of those involved in the drama, the writers, directors, actors, the crew and of course the sub-postmasters.

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This article may also be found on the authors website johnceellis.me.uk and his company website www.wellis-technology.co.uk.