Former Post Office CEO Paula Vennells has made a startling admission during her testimony before the inquiry into the Horizon IT system scandal. Vennells has admitted to removing references to the flawed system from a legal document issued by Royal Mail before it went public.
The Horizon IT system, created by Fujitsu, was used to prosecute over 700 sub-postmasters for theft and false accounting. These wrongful prosecutions resulted in many individuals losing their homes, livelihoods, and reputations.
During her third and final day of questioning, Vennells revealed that she made “last minute changes” to the Royal Mail prospectus, removing any mention of the Horizon system. This document is a legal and financial document that provides important information for potential investors.
Vennells stated that she was made aware of the Horizon reference in the prospectus and contacted the company secretary to have it removed. She believed that as the system was no longer under the control of the Royal Mail group, it should not be mentioned in the prospectus.
This action was seen as crucial by Vennells, who even wrote to a colleague stating, “I have earned my keep on this.” She acknowledged that had the Horizon system flaws been known at the time, the Royal Mail would not have been able to go public.
It was suggested during her testimony that Vennells’ role in the separation of the Post Office and Royal Mail, as well as the return of Post Office profitability, earned her a CBE (Commander of the British Empire). However, she has since returned this honor.
Vennells served as the CEO of the Post Office for 12 years and as its chief executive for seven of those years. In an emotional testimony, she expressed her love for the Post Office and her dedication to delivering the best service for the UK.
When questioned about her responsibility for the Horizon scandal, Vennells pointed out that she has not been employed since 2019 and has dedicated her time to the inquiry. She stated, “For the last year, it has probably been a full-time job, and it is my commitment. I have avoided talking to the press, perhaps to my own detriment, because all the way through, I have put this first.”
During her testimony, Vennells denied the accusation that she gave a “craven self-serving account.” She stated that as the CEO, she could not be responsible for everything that happened and had to rely on the advice of internal and external experts.
However, evidence presented by victims’ barrister Sam Stein KC showed that Vennells was aware of numerous flaws in the Horizon system. He argued that she should have taken action and conducted a deep investigation into the system.
Throughout her testimony, Vennells repeatedly emphasized that she trusted the people she worked with and lacked the technical knowledge to understand the intricacies of the IT system. She admitted that she may have been “too trusting” at times.
When asked for the names of the people she placed her trust in, Vennells listed past Post Office executives. However, this was met with criticism from Mr. Stein, who accused her of distancing herself and blaming others for not informing her of the truth.
The inquiry into the Horizon scandal continues to reveal shocking and disturbing facts, leaving many to question the trust and integrity of the Post Office and its leadership.
