Sub-Postmasters Stamp Out Boycott Talk

The Post Office scandal, which unfolded between 1999 and 2015, left a lasting impact on the lives of more than 900 sub-postmasters. Faulty software led to false accounting accusations, which resulted in lost livelihoods, financial distress and, in extreme cases, even prison time.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has announced measures to exonerate and compensate the victims, but questions remain. How will these challenges affect the Post Office and Britain’s small businesses, which are often dependent on their local services?

The Post Office Scandal

The Horizon IT system, developed by Fujitsu and implemented by the Post Office in 1999, was intended to streamline accounting and stock-taking processes. However, sub-postmasters soon began to falsely report bugs and glitches, indicating financial shortfalls amounting to thousands of pounds. Desperate to avoid accusations of embezzlement from the Post Office, some sub-postmasters covered alleged discrepancies with their money.

The Post Office, putting their trust in information provided by the Horizon system, prosecuted 700 sub-postmasters, equating to an average of one per week between 1999 and 2015.

Other entities, including the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), brought an additional 283 cases. The fallout from these prosecutions led to wrongful convictions and financial ruin for many innocent individuals over two decades.

Public Anger

Recently released ITV drama ‘Mr Bates vs the Post Office’ has increased public awareness and debate around the scandal. In response, many viewers have discussed the possibility of boycotting their local post offices as a protest against the organisation.

Hannah Watkins, a sub-postmistress from Louth, acknowledged the public's anger but urged them to consider the consequences of their actions carefully. Watkins also highlighted the importance of distinguishing between the organisation and franchised, local post offices. Many of these are small businesses heavily reliant on customer income and could face more misery if a widespread boycott were to begin.

Impact on Businesses

Small businesses, the backbone of their communities, often rely on the services provided by Post Office branches. A nationwide boycott could realistically lead to the closure of many franchises if foot traffic and, therefore, revenue drops significantly.

From sending and receiving parcels to handling essential paperwork, SMEs depend on the accessibility and reliability of postal services. The convenience of having a nearby post office plays a pivotal role in the day-to-day operations of businesses, contributing to efficiency and customer service.

Local Post Offices are more than just service providers. They are community hubs that maintain connections and contribute to local economic health in villages particularly. The closure of franchised branches could create a ripple effect, hurting the broader network of businesses that depend on their operations.

Road to Redemption

In response to the scandal, the Government have pledged to introduce new legislation to swiftly exonerate and compensate the victims. A public inquiry launched in February 2021 aims to uncover the truth behind the actions of those at the top of the Post Office organisation. However, those involved will need to be patient.

In the meantime, local Post Offices continue to operate, and a boycott could only serve to exacerbate the challenges faced by sub-postmasters trying to move on and rebuild their lives.

In Conclusion

The Post Office debacle has left a lasting scar on the lives of sub-postmasters who were unjustly prosecuted. While public anger is understandable, it’s essential to channel this frustration appropriately and responsibly. As the Government works towards justice and redress, supporting local Post Offices remains crucial for the wellbeing of small businesses and local communities.

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