MR BATES VS THE POST OFFICE

This four-part miniseries explores one of the most significant miscarriages of justice in British history. Over 3,500 sub-postmasters faced technical issues with their HORIZON accounting systems – software developed by Fujitsu and implemented by the government in 2000. The system was plagued by defects that inaccurately reported financial shortfalls for which postmasters were held legally accountable. As a consequence, more than 250 individuals were charged with crimes related to theft and fraud, with several serving prison sentences. Retired sub-postmaster Mr. Bates, portrayed by Toby Jones, spent nearly two decades to exposing these injustices and clearing the names of those wrongfully accused of false accounting. Despite substantial evidence highlighting these flaws, the UK postal service steadfastly denied any responsibility for the failures of the HORIZON system and obstructed calls for resolution at every opportunity. The repercussions of this ordeal devastated lives and tarnished reputations, and the quest for justice continues for many today. This series has raised significant public awareness and prompted political action, culminating in the British Prime Minister’s announcement of increased compensation for those affected. Shocking, horrific and it would sound unfathomable if it wasn’t true.