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From: Cooper, Tom - UKGI[/O=HMT/OU=EXCHANGE ADMINISTRATIVE GROUP
(FYDIBOHF23SPDLT)/CN=RECIPIENTS/CN=8D968D43E33749AE9E59F9C9350E69D5-
COOPER, THOMAS (TCOO]
Sent: Mon 18/03/2019 9:05:40 AM (UTC)
To: Tolhurst, Mpst (BEIS);
Subject: Re: POL discussion with SoS and Kelly Tolhurst
Thanks
Sent from my iPhone
On 18 Mar 2019, at 08:56, Tolhurst, Mpst (BEIS) <____
Hi Tom,
Please see final letter cleared by Kelly and No.10 attached.
We are currently arranging with Whips office to circulate this morning.
Thanks,
Rosie
<image001.png> Rosie Perkins
Private Secretary to Kelly Tolhurst MP I Parliamentary Under
Seqwtacial State.
Teli___.GRO
mpst.tolhurst@.
Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy
www.gov.uk/beis I https://twitter.com/beisgovuk
From: Cooper, Tom - UKGI
Sent: 18 March 2019 08:30
To: Tolhurst, Mpst (BEIS) i, GRO, >
Cc: Watson, Craig (Advanced Manufacturing and Services)
William __ bs Lambert, Gavin (.
Services); >; Watson, Richard - UKGL.
Mpst (BEIS) Willmer, Jacob (BEIS) ¢_ GRO
Mpst (BEIS) ¢. GRO
Aldred, Tom - UKGI <
Annabelle (Communications & Partnerships’
(Advanced Manufacturing and Services) <} md senna
Fox, Joshua - UKGI ¢ GRO
Holloway,
id
; Vandini, Cecilia
‘e, Stephen - UKGI
PP Lambert, Lucie - UKGI
Subje POL discussion with SoS and Kelly Tolhurst
I'd be grateful for an update on this.
Has the letter been issued?
If so, please forward the final text.
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Tom
Sent from my iPhone
On 17 Mar 2019, at 14:55, Tolhurst, Mpst (BEIS} wrote:
Thanks, both. Will share now and I'll revert.
Whips admin unit aren’t around to issue letters this weekend. The chief Whips office have
suggested our SpAds get in touch with theirs who can issue. Otherwise it will have to wait
until 8am Monday morning. I’ll let you know if Kelly has a view on this.
Thanks,
Rosie
Rosie Perkins
Private Secretary to Kelly Tolhurst MP
From: Watson, Craig (Advanced Manufacturing and Services) 4
Sent: Sunday, March 17, 2019 14:37
To: Holloway, William (BEIS); Tolhurst, Mpst (BEIS); Lambert, Gavin (Advanced
Manufacturing and Services); Cooper, Tom - UKGI
Cc: Watson, Richard - UKGI; Clark, Mpst (BEIS); Willmer, Jacob (BEIS); Clark Spad, Mpst
(BEIS); Aldred, Tom - UKGI; Miles, Annabelle (Communications & Partnerships); Vandini,
Cecilia (Advanced Manufacturing and Services); Clarke, Stephen - UKGI; Fox, Joshua - UKGI;
Lambert, Lucie - UKGI
Subject: Re: POL discussion with SoS and Kelly Tolhurst
Thanks Will.
Rosie can you share with Kelly?
Thanks
Craig
Get Outlook for iOS
From: Holloway, William (BEIS) {
Sent: Sunday, March 17, 2019 2:
To: Watson, Craig (Advanced Manufacturing and Services); Tolhurst, Mpst (BEIS); Lambert,
Gavin (Advanced Manufacturing and Services); Cooper, Tom - UKGI
Cc: Watson, Richard - UKGI; Clark, Mpst (BEIS); Willmer, Jacob (BEIS); Clark Spad, Mpst
(BEIS); Aldred, Tom - UKGI; Miles, Annabelle (Communications & Partnerships); Vandini,
Cecilia (Advanced Manufacturing and Services); Clarke, Stephen - UKGI; Fox, Joshua - UKGI;
Lambert, Lucie - UKGI
Subject: Re: POL discussion with SoS and Kelly Tolhurst
Thanks Craig, I’m happy with this.
Best,
will
Get Outlook for iOS
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From: Watson, Craig (Advanced Manufacturing and Services) <}
Sent: Sunday, March 17, 2019 2:17 PM .
To: Holloway, William (BEIS); Tolhurst, Mpst (BEIS); Lambert, Gavin (Advanced
Manufacturing and Services); Cooper, Tom - UKGI
Cc: Watson, Richard - UKGI; Clark, Mpst (BEIS); Willmer, Jacob (BEIS); Clark Spad, Mpst
(BEIS); Aldred, Tom - UKGI; Miles, Annabelle (Communications & Partnerships); Vandini,
Cecilia (Advanced Manufacturing and Services); Clarke, Stephen - UKGI; Fox, Joshua - UKGI;
Lambert, Lucie - UKGI
Subject: Re: POL discussion with SoS and Kelly Tolhurst
Hi Will
Have discussed with POL, they are nervous about prejudging the outcome of future trials
which will look at individual claims but have suggested the addition in bold below to the
third paragraph, which hopefully addresses your point below?
I believe the courts are the right place to hear the issues being raised and hope that the
legal case will assist in the resolution of what are long-standing issues between some
postmasters and the Post Office so that postmasters with claims can obtain a remedy if
the court finds there is validity to those claims.
Regards
Craig
Get Outlook for iOS
From: Holloway, William (BEIS)
Sent: Sunday, March 17, 2019 11:02 am
To: Tolhurst, Mpst (BEIS); Watson, Craig (Advanced Manufacturing and Services); Lambert,
Gavin (Advanced Manufacturing and Services); Cooper, Tom - UKGI
Cc: Watson, Richard - UKGI; Clark, Mpst (BEIS); Willmer, Jacob (BEIS); Clark Spad, Mpst
(BEIS); Aldred, Tom - UKGI; Miles, Annabelle (Communications & Partnerships); Vandini,
Cecilia (Advanced Manufacturing and Services); Clarke, Stephen - UKGI; Fox, Joshua - UKGI;
Lambert, Lucie - UKGI
Subject: Re: POL discussion with SoS and Kelly Tolhurst
Morning,
Not really sure it reflects GC & KT steer about justice for those who have a valid claim.
Happy to accept PO changes, but can we add to them a bit to clarify?
Thanks,
will
Get Outlook for iOS
From: Tolhurst, Mpst (BEI :
Sent: Sunday, March 17, 2019 10:43 AM
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To: Watson, Craig (Advanced Manufacturing and Services); Lambert, Gavin (Advanced
Manufacturing and Services); Cooper, Tom - UKGI; Holloway, William (BEIS)
Cc: Watson, Richard - UKGI; Clark, Mpst (BEIS); Willmer, Jacob (BEIS); Clark Spad, Mpst
(BEIS); Aldred, Tom - UKGI; Miles, Annabelle (Communications & Partnerships); Vandini,
Cecilia (Advanced Manufacturing and Services); Clarke, Stephen - UKGI; Fox, Joshua - UKGI;
Lambert, Lucie - UKGI
Subject: RE: POL discussion with SoS and Kelly Tolhurst
Will — do you have a view on the below amended version please?
If the letter has not yet been sent out we may have scope to replace with the version
below, I’ve highlighted the changes. I’ll continue to chase on where the letter has got to,
apologies not having much luck.
Thanks,
Rosie
<image008.png> Rosie Perkins
Private Secretary to Kelly Tolhurst MP I Parliamentary Under Secretary of St
mpst.tolhurst@ rosie. perkins@
Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy
www.gov.uk/beisIhttps://twitter.com/beisgovuk
From: Watson, Craig (Advanced Manufacturing and Services) {
Sent: 17 March 2019 10:21
To: Lambert, Gavin (Advanced Manufacturing and Services)
Cooper, Tom - UKGI
Cc: Holloway, William (BEIS):
Partnerships) ¢_
Cecilia (Advanced Manufacturing and Services) <!
Stephen - UKGI ; Fox, Joshua - UKGI
{ GRO ; Lambert, Lucié -UKGI
Subject: Re: POL discussion with SoS and Kelly Tolhurst
Vandini,
; Clarke,
Rosie
As mentioned by Gavin, POL’s amended version is below.
Regards
Craig
Dear Colleague,
Postmasters are the backbone of the Post Office, and their branches are the backbone of
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communities across the country. That’s why we committed to safeguarding the post office
network and protecting existing rural services. The overall number of post offices across
the UK remains at its most stable in decades with over 11,500 branches thanks to
significant Government investment of over £2 billion.
The judge has, however, been highly critical of the Post Office’s handling of the case and
finds that over the long period of time addressed by the judgment, there have been times
when Post Office’s conduct in its dealings with the lead claimant postmasters have been
heavy-handed, some of its operations insufficiently transparent, and its procedures and
processes lacking in consistency and professionalism.
The judgement is complex and lengthy and the Post Office will need time to consider in
detail, including whether it has a case for appeal. However, having spoken over the
weekend with the Chairman of POL, I am assured they have acknowledged the criticism,
are taking it very seriously, and will be taking appropriate action where necessary.
Legal proceedings in this case are currently scheduled to continue until at least March
2020. While this dispute remains a matter for the courts, it is clearly not appropriate for
Government to comment further. However, I will be remaining in close contact with the
Post Office over the coming weeks and months as they deliver on their commitments to
improve.
I understand that this issue will be of interest and concern to Members of the House and,
as this process progresses, I will update Members further.
Get Outlook for iOS
From: Lambert, Gavin (Advanced Manufacturing and Services)
10: 14 am
To: Tolhurst, Mpst (BEIS); Watson, Craig (Advanced Manufacturing and Services); Cooper,
Tom - UKGI
Cc: Holloway, William (BEIS); Watson, Richard - UKGI; Clark, Mpst (BEIS); Willmer, Jacob
(BEIS); Clark Spad, Mpst (BEIS); Aldred, Tom - UKGI; Miles, Annabelle (Communications &
Partnerships); Vandini, Cecilia (Advanced Manufacturing and Services); Clarke, Stephen -
UKGI; Fox, Joshua - UKGI; Lambert, Lucie - UKGI
Subject: Re: POL discussion with SoS and Kelly Tolhurst
Thanks Rosie
Yes, Post Office came back to us late last night with some proposed changes which reflect
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more of the nuance of the case and I think are helpful. They retain the core points
discussed with SoS and Kelly yesterday.
So, if the letter has yet to go out, then I suggest worth Kelly considering please.
Craig is send over the tweaked version shortly.
Around all day and happy to discuss
Gavin
From: "Tolhurst, Mpst (BEIS)" <.
Date: Sunday, 17 March 2019 at 0!
To: "Watson, Craig (Advanced Manufacturing and Services)"
L GRO “b, "Lambert, Gavin (Advanced Manufacturing and
"Watson, Richard -
rer. Jacob (BEIS)"
}, "Aldred, Tom - UKGI"
les, Annabelle (Communications & Partnerships)"
'Vandini, Cecilia (Advanced Manufacturing and
"Lambert, Lucie - UKGI
Subject: RE: POL discussion with SoS and Kelly Tolhurst
Hi all,
Hibaq shared the Dear Colleague letter with the Whips office yesterday and I understand
that version was cleared by all (see attached). I am just checking in with the whips on
whether it was actually sent or not, as we did not receive confirmation yesterday.
Can you please confirm that concerns have been raised regarding the attached letter?
Additionally, is there any update on the departmental statement please?
Thanks,
Rosie
<image009.png> Rosie Perkins
Private Secretary to Kelly Tolhurst MP I Parliamentary Under Secretary of St
GRO Mobil
mpst.tolhurst@ __jrosie.perkins¢
Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy
‘GRO
www.gov.uk/beisIhttps://twitter.com/beisgovuk
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From: Watson, Craig (Advanced Manufacturing and Services) 4
Sent: 17 March 2019 09:14 ~
To: Lambert, Gavin (Advanced Manufacturing and Services)
Tolhurst, Mpst (BEIS) ¢
Cooper, Tom - UKG
Cc: Holloway, Williar GRO $; Watson, Richard - UKGI
f GRO
Jacob (BEIS)
<. 20. Aldred, Tom
Annabelle (Communications & Partnerships) d
Cecilia (Advance i it
Stephen - UKGI
4
Subje
: POL discussion with SoS and Kelly Tolhurst
Morning Hibaq,
Can you confirm if the letter went out last night or has it been held pending POL’s
concerns?
Thanks
Craig
<image010.png><image01 1 jog> Craig Watson — Deputy Director Retail, Services <
Floor 4 Victoria 3, 1 Victoria Street, London, SW1
OETwww.gov.uk/beisIhttps://twitter.com/beisgovuk
. PA: Pat Omogbai
jpat.omogbai@ GRO}
<image012.png>
Mental Health First Aider
MHFA Details on BEIS Intranet
From: Lambert, Gavin (Advanced Manufacturing and Services)
-; Cooper, Tom - UKGI
GRO
Annabelle (Communications & Partnerships) <
Cecilia (Advance
Stephen - UKGE”
3 Vandini,
Clarke,
«>
S
Subject OL discussion with SoS and Kelly Tolhurst
Can we hold the letter from going out please until we and our lawyers have had chance to
review POL’s comments
From: "Tolhurst, Mpst (BEIS)"<_ GRO} >
Date: Saturday, 16 March 2019" at 23:46
: "Cooper, Tom - UKGI" I
vanced Manufacturing and
>, "Aldred, Tom - UKGI"
iles, Annabelle (Communications & Partnerships)"
'Vandini, Cecilia (Advanced Manufacturing and
Subject: Re: POL discussion with SoS and Kelly Tolhurst
Would you be able to share on the chain the text you had shared with POL? Is the text a
previous version of the DC letter?
As that’s the text you had said the lawyers would be concerned about earlier.
Kind Regards,
Hibaq
Hibag Said
APS to Minister for Small Business, Consumers and Corporate Responsibility
GRO
<image013.png>
From: Cooper, Tom - UKGI
Sent: Saturday, March 16, 2019 11:08 pm
To: Tolhurst, Mpst (BEIS)
Cc: Lambert, Gavin (Advanced Manufacturing and Services); Holloway, William (BEIS);
Watson, Richard - UKGI; Clark, Mpst (BEIS); Willmer, Jacob (BEIS); Clark Spad, Mpst (BEIS);
Watson, Craig (Advanced Manufacturing and Services); Aldred, Tom - UKGI; Miles,
Annabelle (Communications & Partnerships); Vandini, Cecilia (Advanced Manufacturing
and Services); Clarke, Stephen - UKGI; Fox, Joshua - UKGI; Lambert, Lucie - UKGI
Subject: Re: POL discussion with SoS and Kelly Tolhurst
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Post Office have now seen the draft and have emailed Gavin and me to say they have
significant concerns - not with the spirit but with the way it is worded.
As mentioned in my earlier email I think the current draft will cause the lawyers problems
in relation to handling the case.
I suggest there needs to be a discussion with POL to agree with POL a form of words that
conveys what is wanted but that doesn’t damage the case.
Tom
Sentfrommy iPhone nn
On 16 Mar 2019, at 22:47, Tolhurst, Mpst (BEIS) < GRO b wrote:
Hi All,
Please see readout below of the call between Kelly and POL this afternoon
with few actions. Let me know if anything doesn’t make sense or if I’ve
misunderstood something.
It would also be good to get an update on when we plan to make this
departmental public statement. Thanks!
Participants;
Kelly Tolhurst
Tim Parker
Al Cameron
Jane MacLeod
Gavin Lambert
Tom Cooper
Hibagq Said
Actions:
* KT Private Office to set-up a call with Al Cameron on Tuesday
morning before Orals, so that Kelly gets an update on the boards
discussions the previous day.
* Gavin/Tom to ensure our office is kept well informed of progress and
to provide a weekly update.
Discussion Points:
* TP was surprised by the outcome of the judgment, however POL’s
intention is to be fair and not defensive and aim to bring a good case to
reach a fair settlement. He confirmed that they would look at their
procedures and the opportunities to improve. He acknowledged where
they can do things better, and if it costs them money (could be as much
as £100m) they will look to manage the costs. He mentioned there was
a few legal points that were of concern and they will be receiving
subsequent advice to review this in more detail, and looking at whether
they should do an appeal. KT stated the importance that BEIS are
consulted before they make any intention to appeal.
© They are currently assembling as much information they can, so at
their board meeting on Monday, they know what needs to be done.
They will discuss ways to improve the manner they run their branches,
so when disputes arise they are dealt with fairly. They will also look to
review the question on where the judge has been biased on and
whether they will ask him to recuse himself from the horizon trial.
Unlikely that we will do this, but they will consider whether it is an
action, they should take forward. It is a legal pressing matter that
would need to be addressed sooner rather than later.(Line was fuzzy/
interruption at this point - so I may have not captured this correctly)
« Al Cameron made clear that they would not go down this route until
there was final agreement with everyone and will of course keep us
updated. They will also discuss their views of the rationale of doing an
appeal and where the focus is. They have started doing work streams
since the judgement, such as the process of managing differences
correctly. He mentioned that some of the cases are 20 years old and
how it will be hard for them to be exactly sure of the circumstances.
However, they will not be avoiding their liability, they are going to
listen but will also highlight where they have improved in cases over
time. They are also looking at mediation schemes, to compensate
people that were treated badly.
© KT outlined that it was a disappointing judgement, she understood
the complexities that they face and appreciated that they are taking
this seriously. In regards to the liabilities, she said £100m was a
significant amount, and that Government may be involved in the sign
off or funding of this amount. They discussed the operational issues and
the criticism faced on the culture and practices. She highlighted the
point that as the responsible Minister she will be held to account and
rightly so in the House and how this should be bared in mind. On that
basis, she stressed the importance of Post Office sharing information
with BEIS and that she is kept updated throughout the whole process.
© KT made the point that this judgement could justify the criticisms the
Post Office are receiving on postmasters pay. She addressed that the
issues on the franchising plans and postmasters pay and this judgement
will be perceived as the same argument, with the ongoing concerns on
Post Office. TP outlined that it was important to keep the issues
separate if possible, but understands the difficulties within this. KT
highlighted her concerns on the impression she was given at her last
meeting with Post Office on the case, and the expectation that there
would be a better outcome then what was handed. Therefore was
concerned about the legal advice and independence of this and how
important it was to understand the issues.
* She informed them that she would be meeting with 10 labour MPs
on franchising on Monday, and that they will mention this judgement.
She raised the point that where there has been unjust actions against
employees, individuals should receive settlements where postmasters
have been affected.
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* KT asked who will be leading on this, as Paula had step down and
emphasised the need for her to have an understanding of the actions
that Post Office will be taking forward. She expressed her appreciation
of the work of the Post Office and how it is managed. TP confirmed Al
Cameron would be in charge, and leading on this and that they were
fortunate to have him, as he knows the company very well. TP
informed KT that in terms of advice, they had two senior QCs and could
not expect to have a better advocate. However when it comes to
deciding on whether they should appeal they will look to get an
independent person, and their lawyers feel that there is good grounds
to appeal.
* They discussed the franchising programme and that as a board they
believe it will improve the sustainability of the Post Office. TP said that
they were looking at ways of improving the rewards for postmasters,
such as the NSSP that looks at the banking framework and creates more
work for postmasters. As part of this, their remuneration would
increase. KT said she defends the franchising programme and the Post
Office, however needs to have comfort and confidence that when there
is feedback for them, they are actioned. She then gave an example of a
recent franchising issue brought to her attention. Al Cameron provided
an update on the banking framework. KT offered her assistance and
informed POL that she was happy to put pressure on the banks if
required, and help remove any blocks. She mentioned that she had
spoken recently with HMT Ministers to get them to put some pressure
on the banks.
* KT asked about their legal team defending their positions and advice.
She asked whether there would be any change of strategy on dealing
with the horizon litigation. JM provided an update of the four separate
trials. The Horizon trial driven by evidence and by independent
witnesses (appointed on each side) she then went on to explain the
various evidence that will be taken into account. They discussed the
two trials in November and how the judge wants to look at issues of
limitation. The judge wants an answer on whether the limitation act
applies to these trials. The fourth trial will be looking at representative
claimants and breaches; this will be a conventional trial process. The
judge has dictated the sequencing of the questions; therefore POL’s
strategy is how to respond to these questions. Al Cameron said as they
will be receiving new advice from a different QC this will bring forward
other perspectives, the quality of this advice will guide their thinking of
their strategy.
* KT reiterated that it was incredibly important in her view that as
much information is shared with us as possible. She requested a
detailed update next week after the board meeting, to know what the
board’s strategy is and what their next steps are in taking this forward.
Al Cameron was more than happy to brief the Minister on updates as
and when appropriate — whether that be weekly in person or via phone
to ensure she has the close oversight she has requested. Which KT
appreciated and will follow up with them if she has any additional
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questions.
* Lastly KT said she was concerned that Paula resigning will be
perceived negatively, considering she has taken on another role that
has been publicised. Therefore would like to understand the exact
recruitment process to get a new CEO and for this to be set out clearly.
As having this in place will help to defend possible criticisms and
speculation. Al Cameron confirmed they will share this.
Kind Regards,
Hibaq
<image001.png> <image002 jpg Hibag Said
Assistant Private Secretary to Kelly Tolhurst MPI
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State I
Department for Business, Energy and Industrial
Strategy I
1 Victoria Street, London SW1H OETI
mpst.tolhursté GRO
From: Tolhurst, Mpst (BEIS) < GRO
Sent: 16 March 2019 19:
To: Cooper, Tom - UKGI
Cc: Holloway, William (BEIS) <. Watson,
Richard - UKGI 4, GRO ccanaaat>s Lambert, Gavin (Advanced
i i GRO i>; Clark, Mpst
>; Willmer, Jacob (BEIS)
Clark Spad, Mpst (BEIS)
Watson, Craig (Advanced Manufacturing and
; Aldred, Tom - UKGI
jiles, Annabelle (Communications &
ini, Cecilia (Advanced
GRO '>; Clarke, Stephen -
Fox, Joshua - UKGI
Lucie - UKGI
Manufa
Subject: Re: POL discussion with SoS and Kelly Tolhurst
Hi all,
No10 have cleared and I have sent the attached final signed Dear
Colleague letter to the Whips office to issue.
Thank you everyone for all your work getting this out.
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Kind Regards,
Hibaq
Hibaq Said
APS to Minister for Small Business, Consumers and Corporate
Responsibility
<image014.png>
From: Cooper, Tom - UKGI!
Sent: Saturday, March 16, 2019 :
To: Tolhurst, Mpst (BEIS)
Cc: Holloway, William (BEIS); Watson, Richard - UKGI; Lambert, Gavin
(Advanced Manufacturing and Services); Clark, Mpst (BEIS); Willmer, Jacob
(BEIS); Clark Spad, Mpst (BEIS); Watson, Craig (Advanced Manufacturing and
Services); Aldred, Tom - UKGI; Miles, Annabelle (Communications &
Partnerships); Vandini, Cecilia (Advanced Manufacturing and Services);
Clarke, Stephen - UKGI; Fox, Joshua - UKGI; Lambert, Lucie - UKGI
Subject: Re: POL discussion with SoS and Kelly Tolhurst
It's a fair comment. I think the early versions achieved a better balance
between not commenting on the result of the current hearing and the
SoS’s desire to show that we are supportive of the case taking place
to achieve a remedy for those postmasters who have a just claim.
Tom
Sent from my iPhone
On 16 Mar 2019, at 16:36, Tolhurst, Mpst (BEIS)
"} wrote:
No10 have said the text is fine, but have asked as the
legal case is ongoing should we be commenting on that?
Is it not premature?
Gavin/Tom & Richard - grateful for your views on this..
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Kind Regards,
Hibaq
Hibaq Said
APS to Minister for Small Business, Consumers and
Corporate Responsibility
GRO
<image015.png>
From: Tolhurst, Mpst (BEIS) <mpst.tolhurs!
Sent: Saturday, March 16, 2019 3:46 pm .
To: Holloway, William (BEIS); Watson, Richard - UKGI; Lambert,
GRO
Gavin (Advanced Manufacturing and Services); Cooper, Tom -
UKGI
Ce: Clark, Mpst (BEIS); Willmer, Jacob (BEIS); Clark Spad, Mpst
(BEIS); Watson, Craig (Advanced Manufacturing and Services);
Aldred, Tom - UKGI; Miles, Annabelle (Communications &
Partnerships); Vandini, Cecilia (Advanced Manufacturing and
Services); Clarke, Stephen - UKGI; Fox, Joshua - UKGI; Lambert,
Lucie - UKGI
Subject: RE: POL discussion with SoS and Kelly Tolhurst
Kelly was happy for the version attached to go to No10.
Will let you know once they have cleared this.
Kind Regards,
Hibaq
<image002.png>— <'Mage003.jpg> Hibaq Said
Assistant Private Secretary to Kelly Tolhurst
MPI
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State I
Department for Business, Energy and
Industrial Strategy I
1 Victoria Street, London SW1H OETI
From: Holloway, William (BEIS)
_}; Clark Spad, Mpst (BEIS)
; Watson, Craig (Advanced
k>; Lambert, Lucie - UKGI
Subject: Re: POL discussion with SoS and Kelly Tolhurst
Happy with this revised wording, thanks.
will
Get Outlook for iOS
<image015.png>
From: Tolhurst, Mpst (BEIS) {
Sent: Saturday, March 16, 2019 3:07 PM
To: Watson, Richard - UKGI; Lambert, Gavin (Advanced
Manufacturing and Services); Cooper, Tom - UKGI
Ce: Holloway, William (BEIS); Clark, Mpst (BEIS); Willmer, Jacob
(BEIS); Clark Spad, Mpst (BEIS); Watson, Craig (Advanced
Manufacturing and Services); Aldred, Tom - UKGI; Miles,
Annabelle (Communications & Partnerships); Vandini, Cecilia
(Advanced Manufacturing and Services); Clarke, Stephen - UKGI;
Fox, Joshua - UKGI; Lambert, Lucie - UKGI
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Subject: Re: POL discussion with SoS and Kelly Tolhurst
Thank you all - Will, are you happy with the change below?
Kind Regards,
Hibaq
Hibag Said
APS to Minister for Small Business, Consumers and Corporate
<image015.png>
From: Watson, Richard - UKGI
Sent: Saturday, March 16, 2019 3:04 pm
To: Lambert, Gavin (Advanced Manufacturing and Services);
Cooper, Tom - UKGI; Tolhurst, Mpst (BEIS)
Cc: Holloway, William (BEIS); Clark, Mpst (BEIS); Willmer, Jacob
(BEIS); Clark Spad, Mpst (BEIS); Watson, Craig (Advanced
Manufacturing and Services); Aldred, Tom - UKGI; Miles,
Annabelle (Communications & Partnerships); Vandini, Cecilia
(Advanced Manufacturing and Services); Clarke, Stephen - UKGI;
Fox, Joshua - UKGI; Lambert, Lucie - UKGI
Subject: Re: POL discussion with SoS and Kelly Tolhurst
Fine legally
Richard
Sent from my BlackBerry — the most secure mobile
device
From:Gavin.Lambert
Sent: 16 March 2019
To:Tom.Cooper¢
Cc:William.Hollowa
}Stephen.Clarke/ a
OL discussion with SoS and Kelly Tolhurst
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Thanks Tom
Hibaq — to note amend below to correct a factual point as per
Tom’s email.
Richard — can I double check this is Ok with this from a legal
perspective? If so, then Hibaq can you please go back to Kelly.
Dear Colleague,
Postmasters are the backbone of the Post Office, and their
branches are the backbone of communities across the country.
That’s why we committed to safeguarding the post office
network and protecting existing rural services. The overall
number of post offices across the UK remains at its most stable
in decades with over 11,500 branches thanks to significant
Government investment of over £2 billion.
The Post Office and I are fully supportive of this legal case being
brought. This first judgment, which deals with the contractual
relationship between the Post Office and
postmasters,I
The judge has been highly critical of the Post Office’s handling of
the case and finds the Post Office’s conduct in its dealings with
the lead claimant postmasters have been heavy-handed, some
of its operations insufficiently transparent, and its procedures
and processes lacking in consistency and professionalism.
The judgement is complex and lengthy and the Post Office will
need time to consider in detail, however having spoken today
with the Chairman of POL, I am assured they have
acknowledged the criticism, are taking it very seriously, and will
be taking appropriate action where necessary.
Legal proceedings in this case are currently scheduled to
continue until at least March 2020. Whilst this remains a matter
for the court and it is not appropriate for Government to
comment further. However, I will be remaining in close contact
with the Post Office over the coming weeks and months as they
deliver on their commitments to improve.
I understand that this issue will be of interest and concern to
Members of the House and, as this process progresses, I will
update Members further.
Gavin Lambert
From:"Cooper, Tom - UKGI't
Date: Saturday, 16 March 2019 at 14:34
To: "Tolhurst, Mpst (BEIS)
Cc Holloway, William (BEIS)"
{ GRO >, Jeremy Lumb
"Clarke, Stephen - UKGI"
"Fox, Joshua - UKGI"
"Lambert, Lucie - UKGI"
Subject: Re: POL discussion with SoS and Kelly Tolhurst
This isn’t correct:
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“represents a significant step forward, delivering justice for
those postmasters who have been wronged.”
It would be accurate to say “...significant step towards
delivering justice...”
I’m out of action for the rest of the day.
Gavin - would you be able to share with POL? Expect resistance
from their lawyers.
Tom
Sent from my iPhone
On 16 Mar 2019, at 14:20, Tolhurst, Mpst (BEIS)
Please see a modified version from Kelly below,
she would like to see a redraft and is aware that
Will had further comments.
Grateful if you could review and provide an
updated draft.
Thank you.
Kind Regards,
Hibaq
Dear Colleague,
Postmasters are the backbone of the Post Office,
and their branches are the backbone of
communities across the country. That’s why we
committed to safeguarding the post office network
and protecting existing rural services. The overall
number of post offices across the UK remains at its
most stable in decades with over 11,500 branches
thanks to significant Government investment of
over £2 billion.
The Post Office and I are fully supportive of this
legal case being brought. This first judgment,
which deals with the contractual relationship
between the Post Office and postmasters,
represents a significant step forward, delivering
justice for those postmasters who have been
wronged.
The judge has been highly critical of the Post
Office’s handling of the case and finds the Post
Office’s conduct in its dealings with the lead
claimant postmasters have been heavy-handed,
some of its operations insufficiently transparent,
and its procedures and processes lacking in
consistency and professionalism.
The judgement is complex and lengthy and the
Post Office will need time to consider in detail,
however having spoken today with the Chairman
of POL, I am assured they have acknowledged the
criticism, are taking it very seriously, and will be
taking appropriate action where necessary.
Legal proceedings in this case are currently
scheduled to continue until at least March 2020.
Whilst this remains a matter for the court and it is
not appropriate for Government to comment
further. However, I will be remaining in close
contact with the Post Office over the coming
weeks and months as they deliver on their
commitments to improve.
I understand that this issue will be of interest and
concern to Members of the House and, as this
process progresses, I will update Members further.
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Hibaq Said
APS to Minister for Small Business, Consumers and
Corporate Responsibility
<image005.png>
Holloway, William (BEIS)
GRO
To: Watson, Richard - UKGI; Cooper, Tom - UKGI
Cc: Lambert, Gavin (Advanced Manufacturing and
Services); Clark, Mpst (BEIS); Tolhurst, Mpst (BEIS);
Willmer, Jacob (BEIS); Clark Spad, Mpst (BEIS);
Watson, Craig (Advanced Manufacturing and
Services); Aldred, Tom - UKGI; Miles, Annabelle
(Communications & Partnerships); Vandini, Cecilia
(Advanced Manufacturing and Services); Clarke,
Stephen - UKGI; Fox, Joshua - UKGI; Lambert, Lucie -
UKGI
Subject: Re: POL discussion with SoS and Kelly
Tolhurst
Ok, can we go with this instead (reinserted in the
same place)?
Our objective is that those people who were
wronged to get the justice they deserve.
Thanks,
will
Get Outlook for iOS
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Sent: Saturday, March 16, 2019 1:53 PM
To: Cooper, Tom - UKGI; Holloway, William (BEIS)
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Cc: Lambert, Gavin (Advanced Manufacturing and
Services); Clark, Mpst (BEIS); Tolhurst, Mpst (BEIS);
Willmer, Jacob (BEIS); Clark Spad, Mpst (BEIS);
Watson, Craig (Advanced Manufacturing and
Services); Aldred, Tom - UKGI; Miles, Annabelle
(Communications & Partnerships); Vandini, Cecilia
(Advanced Manufacturing and Services); Clarke,
Stephen - UKGI; Fox, Joshua - UKGI; Lambert, Lucie -
UKGI
Subject: Re: POL discussion with SoS and Kelly
Tolhurst
Just discussed with Tom and think it might be
better to stick with the wording agreed before
Will's suggested change. I understand the
issue of PM's getting justice for valid claims
was important to SoS
Richard
Sent from my BlackBerry — the most secure
mobile device
From:Tom.Cooper: C
Sent: 16 March 20.
Subject: Re: POL discussion with SoS and Kelly Tolhurst
Sorry. I actually think the opposite. As drafted it looks
more like we agree with the judgement than before.
What we’ve now also lost is the SOS’s wish to
communicate that we want postmasters who have
been done wrong to get justice.
Tom
Sent from my iPhone
> On 16 Mar 2019, at 13:12, Holloway, William (BEIS)
< GRO > wrote:
> The Post Office are I are fully supportive of this legal
case. Our objective is that justice is obtained for those
claimants with valid claims.
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<Dear Colleague - Kelly Tolhurst - POL.pdf>
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