Post Office Capture Scandal Unfolds
The Capture scandal has raised questions about the reliability of the Post Office's IT systems and the impact on sub-postmasters, with the CCRC currently investigating 29 Capture convictions and the Post Office required to produce material relating to the cases. The government's confirmation of £1 billion in compensation paid out to over 7,300 postmasters affected by the Horizon IT Scandal has also highlighted the need for fair and timely compensation for those affected by the Capture scandal.
A 1996 report has been uncovered, revealing the Post Office's Capture software system was plagued by bugs and faults, leading to potentially hundreds of wrongful convictions of sub-postmasters, including Patricia Owen, who was convicted of theft and died without her name being cleared.
The report, commissioned by Owen's defence team, concluded that the software was "totally discredited" and any evidence relying on it was "very unsafe". However, the findings were never shared with the court, and Owen's conviction was never overturned. The discovery of the report has raised hopes that it could help clear the names of Owen and hundreds of other sub-postmasters who were wrongly convicted for accounting issues related to the faulty IT system.
Sir Alan Bates, a leading campaigner for victims of the Capture scandal, has called for those responsible for the wrongful convictions to be "brought to account". The report's findings have also led to the UK government announcing a compensation scheme for postmasters who suffered financial losses due to the Capture software used in the 1990s. The Capture Redress Scheme will provide fair compensation for those who suffered financial shortfalls between 1992 and 2000.
The scheme will have a two-stage process, with an initial eligibility review and an independent panel assessment. Eligible postmasters will be able to apply, including those who have passed away or need additional support. An independent panel of experts will review claims, taking a holistic view and using a balance of probabilities standard of proof. The scheme is expected to open for applications in Autumn 2025, with an initial phased rollout for 150 claimants.
The Capture scandal has had a profound impact on the lives of sub-postmasters and their families, and the discovery of the 1996 report is a significant step towards justice and compensation for those affected. The UK government's announcement of the Capture Redress Scheme is a welcome move, and it is hoped that it will provide fair and timely compensation to those who have suffered as a result of the faulty IT system.