The Post Office Horizon IT Inquiry has today (8 July) published
Volume 1 of its Final Report* which considers the human impact of
the scandal and redress for victims.
In response to the specific findings of Volume 1, Law Society of
England and Wales president Richard Atkinson said: “The Public
Inquiry has revealed the terrible impact the Post Office scandal
has had on the affected post masters and post mistresses, as well
as their families and wider communities.
“We recognise the enormous pain caused to the innocent victims of
this gross miscarriage of justice, which cannot be allowed to
happen again.
“The call for full and fair redress, including improved
independent oversight by a suitably qualified senior lawyer, and
guaranteed access to free legal advice for claimants, is
welcomed.
“More than a decade on from the scandal, it is unacceptable that
victims continue to face delays in receiving the compensation
they are owed. It is essential for justice and the public's faith
in the legal system for the process to be clear, transparent,
fair and fast.”
Notes to editors
· * Read Volume 1 of the Post Office
Horizon IT Inquiry Final Report.
· Findings for
the remaining phases, as well as overall recommendations, will
follow in a final report, to be published in due course.
