Alan Bates, a key figure in the Post Office Horizon IT scandal, has revealed the driving force behind his relentless campaign for justice. Speaking at the inquiry, Bates expressed that the “harm and injustice” he witnessed compelled him to dedicate a significant portion of his life to fighting for the truth.
Bates, who was prominently featured in the ITV drama that shed light on the scandal, shared his journey of starting a small campaign that eventually grew as more individuals joined in. He emphasized the importance of dedication, stubbornness, and the realization that the injustice was not just affecting him but many others.
Despite spending four times longer campaigning about Horizon than being a subpostmaster, Bates believed that the Post Office terminated his contract due to his persistent complaints about the flawed Horizon system. He highlighted the limitations he faced with the reporting aspects of the software, drawing attention to the challenges he encountered.
The inquiry session began with lead counsel Jason Beer KC criticizing the Post Office for delayed document disclosures, which he deemed highly disruptive. Despite the challenges, Inquiry chair Wyn Williams expressed determination to continue the hearings on schedule to ensure justice is served efficiently.
Bates’ testimony shed light on the struggles faced by over 700 subpostmasters who were wrongly prosecuted due to faults in the Horizon system. His unwavering commitment to seeking the truth and holding the Post Office accountable for its actions has been a driving force in the pursuit of justice for all affected individuals.
As the inquiry delves deeper into the complexities of the scandal, Bates’ courage and determination serve as a beacon of hope for those seeking accountability and restitution. The fight for justice continues, fueled by the passion and dedication of individuals like Alan Bates who refuse to back down in the face of adversity.