T3. Ms Bradshaw asked the Minister to give an update on the implementation of the Post Office (Horizon System) Offences Act 2024. (AQT 393/22-27)

My Department is working with the UK Government and operational partners on the implementation of the Act. That includes identifying any cases that are within the scope of the legislation, notifying the individuals concerned and ensuring that their records are updated. That work is ongoing.

Although the number of cases that have been identified in Northern Ireland is relatively small, the hurt and distress that the Horizon scandal inflicted on the individuals concerned is no less significant. Therefore, I am keen to ensure that all those who have had convictions overturned or cautions deleted are notified as soon as possible and that those eligible to receive financial redress are allowed to access that as swiftly as possible.

Thank you, Minister. You have touched on it a bit, but could you indicate, please, how quickly those affected will know that their convictions have been overturned?

Prior to the calling of the election, it was anticipated that the Bill would pass and would receive Royal Assent in early to mid-July. That was the deadline to which my Department was working. However, the Act went through those processes swiftly in the wash-up in Westminster, and, therefore, we are notifying people that their convictions have been quashed where their convictions have been identified, and, as I described in my initial answer, we will take steps to notify a personal representative if a person is deceased.

Our original intent was that those letters would issue at the point that the legislation received Royal Assent. However, as Royal Assent was brought forward to 24 May, that was not possible. However, work to identify individuals within the scope of the legislation is advanced: indeed, I received an update from the Chief Constable this morning on that issue. Once that assessment of cases has been completed, we will issue those letters without delay.

The intention is for letters to issue to affected individuals in advance of the opening of the financial redress scheme for the cohort of applicants. We understand from the Department for Business and Trade that that is provisionally scheduled for the end of July. However, if anyone believes that they have the right to be exonerated under the scheme, I encourage them, even at this stage, to come forward to the Department, make us aware of their case and allow us to find the relevant information to ensure that everyone who is entitled to support is fully captured.