Alan Bates, a campaigner, suggests pursuing private prosecutions in response to the Post Office IT scandal.

Former subpostmaster and campaigner Alan Bates has expressed his intention to pursue private prosecutions against those responsible for the Horizon IT scandal if the ongoing inquiry does not pass a file to prosecuting authorities. Bates, who had his contract terminated by the Post Office in 2003, is willing to crowdfund criminal action against individuals involved. Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley acknowledged in January that fraud offences may have been committed, but an investigation could continue until 2026. Bates believes that prosecutions should be pursued immediately, alongside the inquiry, to prevent any delays that may necessitate starting the process over again.

During his testimony at the inquiry, Bates criticized the Post Office as “an atrocious organization” that was “beyond saving” and needed to be disbanded. He had raised concerns about the Horizon system as early as 2000 and was ultimately terminated for refusing to accept liability for shortfalls in his branch’s accounts in Llandudno, North Wales. The Horizon IT scandal came to light through the ITV drama “Mr Bates Vs The Post Office,” shedding light on the wrongful prosecutions of over 700 subpostmasters between 1999 and 2015 due to faults in the Horizon system provided by Fujitsu.

Bates called for clarity on whether a file would be passed to prosecutors and police following the conclusion of the inquiry, and suggested that Parliament should alter the inquiry’s remit to ensure this happens. He emphasized the importance of accountability and financial redress for those wronged by the Horizon scandal. If prosecuting authorities do not take the initiative, Bates stated that private prosecutions may be the next step, referencing the Post Office’s past use of such actions. He expressed the hope that the inquiry would uncover the truth and hold responsible parties accountable for their actions.

Concerns were raised about the extent of the Metropolitan Police’s investigation, with questions about whether it would encompass all issues related to the Horizon scandal or solely focus on fraud cases. Bates expressed a desire to see the truth revealed through the testimonies given by those responsible for the decisions that led to the injustices suffered by subpostmasters. Despite potential gaps in memories and missing documentation over the years, Bates remains hopeful that there is sufficient evidence to bring the truth to light. He stressed the importance of exposing the truth of the whole matter and bringing those responsible to justice.

Bates’s willingness to consider private prosecutions is seen as a means of putting pressure on the police and the inquiry to ensure that justice is served in a timely manner. The campaigner believes that the inquiry has reached a crucial stage where decision-makers are finally being held accountable for their actions. He hopes that the testimonies given under oath will shed light on the injustices suffered by subpostmasters and ultimately lead to a resolution of the Horizon IT scandal. Bates’s determination to pursue criminal action reflects a broader desire for transparency, accountability, and justice in the aftermath of a scandal that has had far-reaching consequences for many individuals.