UKG100020453
UKGI00020453
Message
From: Thompson, Laura - UKGI f
Sent: 20/01/2017 15:40:37
To: James MPST munications} Russell
[sa 'ermanent Secretary
Baugh, James - UKGI + Callard, Richard - UKGI
I; Dollin, Michael - UKGI Manson, Justin - UKGI
McInnes, Tim - UKGI 5 ' Parker, Nick - UKGI
Williams, Jessica - UKGI f Evans Gareth (Legal B)
Subject: Post Office: update on legal action on Horizon IT system
James, Claire, Philippa cc. SoS office, SpAds office, Perm Sec office for info
As you are aware, a group of (mostly) former postmasters are seeking to bring a group legal action against Post Office
Limited, regarding claims that alleged faults in the Horizon IT system (used in all branches) have caused postmasters to
be wrongly dismissed or prosecuted. This story has been covered quite extensively in the press in the past. Note that
there remains no evidence that anyone has been wrongfully convicted, or that there are any systemic flaws in the IT
system.
Next Thursday (26 January) there will be a hearing at the High Court, which is the first part of this group action process.
The purpose of the hearing is largely administrative — it will define the scope of the group action, and other procedural
points.
Nevertheless, the campaign group (“Justice for Subpostmasters Alliance”) bringing the legal action has been very vocal
in the past, and there is the chance that they might seek to create interest in this hearing: “Post Office in the dock”, etc.
The hearing will be in public, although is unlikely to cover any specific details of any of the claims.
So I wanted you to be aware that this is coming up. If there is any media interest, I would suggest our usual approach of
referring any enquiries to Post Office. I would not suggest we comment on legal action — but welcome thoughts from
press office.
Very happy to chat through
Thanks
Laura
Laura Thompson I Assistant Director
UK Government Investments
1 Victoria Street I London I SW1H OET