Post Office Horizon IT Scandal Convicts Thousands, Links 13 Suicides

The Post Office Horizon IT scandal, dating back to 1999, involved the wrongful prosecution of around 736 subpostmasters based on faulty data produced by the Horizon system, leading to devastating personal consequences including 13 suicides and numerous mental health struggles. A government inquiry led by Sir Wyn Williams revealed that both Post Office and Fujitsu employees knew or should have known about the system's defects but perpetuated the false belief that the data was accurate. The inquiry described the behaviour of those involved as 'wholly unacceptable' and highlighted the need for urgent, full, and fair compensation for the victims and their families, recommending government-funded legal advice and the creation of a public body to manage redress schemes. The Horizon system bugs caused illusory financial shortfalls that led to false accusations of theft and false accounting, with many prosecuted individuals pleading guilty under duress to avoid prison. The scandal has been widely publicized, including through drama series like ITV's 'Mr Bates Vs The Post Office,' which helped bring attention to the issue. The inquiry continues to release further volumes, with a focus on accountability and restorative justice plans.