The inquiry into the Post Office Horizon IT scandal will ask current sub-postmasters if the organisation is treating them better now than it did previously.
According to recent reports, Sir Wyn Williams, chairman of the inquiry, has stated that seventh and final phase of the inquiry will seek feedback from current sub-postmaster to find out the how the Post Office is behaving as compared with how it behaved in the past.
In a video announcement, Williams said he wanted to establish what the culture of the Post Office is currently like.
Two surveys will be conducted by the independent analyst YouGov, one to all current sub-postmasters and a second survey aimed at those who are making compensation claims under the Horizon shortfall scheme. YouGov will email sub-postmasters directly to take part in the survey.
Findings of the two surveys, conducted by independent research and data analytics firm, YouGov, will be presented as evidence during the Inquiry’s final phase, Phase 7, and will inform inquiry chair, Sir Wyn Williams’ findings and recommendations. Phase 7 will also investigate whether the Post Office has lived up to its commitment of “full and fair compensation".
Those eligible to take part in the surveys will be contacted via email. Respondents will contribute their experiences anonymously and can do so online, or over the phone for those who need reasonable adjustments.
Williams stressed that there would be no legal risk to sub-postmasters in responding to the survey.
He said, “To current sub-postmasters, let me make one thing clear: I know full well it can be difficult to speak about the challenges you will face or still face at work or in your claims for compensation.
“Let me assure you that these surveys are in no way connected to the Post Office. They are anonymous and no individual will be identified when the findings are published.
“Some of the applicants to the Horizon shortfall scheme will have negotiated compensation payments with Post Office on a without-prejudice basis. I am pleased to be able to report that Post office has agreed to waive the legal privilege which attaches to such negotiations, specifically for these surveys.
“This means that those applicants who conducted negotiations on a without-prejudice basis can share their experiences when responding to those surveys without fear of repercussions.”
Phase 7 is due to start mid-September 2024. In addition to the report on the surveys, it is expected to include evidence from current and former senior officials in the Post Office and Government and will also consider the other compensation schemes. A researcher from YouGov will also be questioned on the surveys’ findings.
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