In a significant development, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has revealed plans for new legislation aimed at addressing the grave injustices suffered by individuals implicated in the Post Office scandal. Responding to an Urgent Question in the House of Commons, Sunak emphasized the urgency of providing justice and compensation to those affected.

Conservative MP Lee Anderson raised the issue, highlighting the wrongful imprisonment of innocent people and pointing out the role of Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey, who was the minister in charge of the Post Office during the scandal. Anderson called for Davey’s resignation, a sentiment echoed by loud cheers in the chamber.

Mr Sunak characterised the Post Office scandal as “one of the greatest miscarriages of justice in our nation’s history.” While not directly addressing the call for resignation, Sunak asserted that victims must receive justice and compensation. He went on to announce plans for new primary legislation to swiftly exonerate and compensate individuals convicted as a result of the Horizon scandal.

Following Sunak’s announcement, Post Office Minister Kevin Hollinrake provided further details, stating that the government aims to issue initial compensation offers for 90% of cases within 40 days. The compensation offer is set at £600,000, and 30 cases have already been finalised. Hollinrake acknowledged the profound impact on lives due to the misuse of power and confirmed the intention to overturn convictions in England and Wales based on Post Office evidence.

However, the minister acknowledged a dilemma in determining innocence for every case without retrial. He emphasised the government’s commitment to addressing the issue promptly through legislation, aiming to provide relief to those unjustly convicted while maintaining proportionality in the compensation process.