During the ongoing public inquiry into the Horizon IT scandal, key figures from the Post Office’s past leadership have admitted significant oversights and expressed apologies for their roles in a controversy that led to the wrongful prosecution of hundreds of subpostmasters.

Alan Cook, former managing director of the Post Office, testified that he was not aware he served as the head of a prosecuting authority during his time in the role, acknowledging this as a regrettable oversight. He noted his misunderstanding of the Post Office’s authority to initiate criminal prosecutions and denied explicitly seeking a “more robust defence of Horizon,” despite suggestions in an email. Cook expressed his personal apology to those adversely affected by the Horizon system. This software fault led to over 700 incorrect criminal convictions against subpostmasters.

Similarly, Sir Michael Hodgkinson, former chairman of the Post Office from 2003-2007, issued an “unreserved apology” during his testimony. He admitted to a lack of knowledge concerning staff prosecutions and acknowledged that he did not investigate issues with the Horizon system adequately during his tenure, expressing deep regret for the suffering caused.

The inquiry also saw testimony from Adam Crozier, former CEO of Royal Mail, which highlighted the continued examination of past executives’ accountability and the Post Office’s procedures during the period when the faulty Horizon system was used.

These revelations are part of a broader inquiry into the scandal, wherein many subpostmasters affected are still seeking justice and compensation despite government announcements regarding redress. The inquiry continues to uncover the extent of the knowledge and actions of the Post Office’s leadership during the scandal, shedding light on significant administrative and ethical failings within the organization.