Post Office in too much of a mess to run Horizon scandal compensation schemes, say MPs

THE Post Office is in too much of a mess to run Horizon scandal compensation schemes, MPs say.

They claimed its leadership was in “utter disarray” — and said it was a disgrace so little has been paid to postmasters.

It comes after PO chairman Henry Staunton was sacked and chief executive Nick Read put under investigation over his conduct.

In a damning report, the Commons business committee demanded an independent body be established to help victims.

Chairman Liam Byrne said: “We now know the Post Office knew of problems 20 years ago.

“Yet, at best, only £1 in £5 of the budget for compensation’s been issued.

“That’s a national disgrace.

“The Post Office is in utter disarray and not fit for purpose to run the payouts.”

Some 700 branch managers were given criminal convictions between 1999 and 2015 after faulty Horizon IT software made it appear they stole cash.

Many await compo.

The scandal was highlighted in the Mr Bates vs the Post Office ITV drama series.

The Post Office said last night: “We welcome the direction of this report into speeding redress for one of the worst miscarriages of justice.”