POST Office operators in and around Romsey have been urged by local MP Caroline Nokes to share their experiences of working for it, providing crucial evidence for the inquiry into the Horizon scandal. 

The Post Office Horizon IT Inquiry is an independent public inquiry investigating failings surrounding the system which led to the wrongful prosecution and conviction of sub-postmasters.

Up to 16,000 people across the UK have been contacted by independent research and data analytics firm YouGov, on behalf of the inquiry, to anonymously share their experiences. 

Every current sub-postmaster in the UK will be asked about their experience working for it, and applicants under the Post Office’s in-house compensation scheme (the Horizon Shortfall Scheme) will be asked about their experiences of this process. 

Findings of the two surveys will be presented as evidence during the inquiry’s final phase and will inform its chair Sir Wyn Williams’ findings and recommendations. 

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Caroline Nokes (Image: Contributed)

Ms Nokes, Conservative MP for Romsey and Southampton North, said: “The Horizon scandal has touched communities both in the Romsey area and across the UK, and the impact continues to be felt today. I know from the conversations I have had with a number of current sub postmasters, and former ones how it impacted them both personally and professionally. 

“Every current sub postmaster should have received one of these surveys and I would encourage everyone to share their experiences and contribute to this important research. If there are any who have not received it please get in touch with me and I will make sure you're included.”

Parliamentary data published earlier this year shows that there are 19 post offices in the Romsey and Southampton North constituency. The vast majority are owned by sub-postmasters who will receive the survey. 

Announcing the survey, Sir Wyn said: “Human stories are at the heart of this inquiry. As will be obvious by now, and as I have said from time to time, I have been deeply affected by the accounts of hardship and suffering endured by many. 

“I urge all those who are contacted to complete the surveys, and I offer my heartfelt thanks now to all those who take the time and trouble to do so.”

Those eligible to take part in the surveys have been contacted via email. Respondents contribute their experiences anonymously and can do so online, or over the phone for those who need reasonable adjustments.