Upper Bann MP Welcomes Quashing of Convictions for Sub-Postmasters in Horizon IT Scandal

Carla Lockhart MP • April 23, 2024

Carla Lockhart, Member of Parliament for Upper Bann, has expressed her support for the extension of Westminster legislation to Northern Ireland, which will quash the wrongful convictions of at least 26 sub-postmasters in Northern Ireland affected by the Horizon IT scandal.

This significant move follows a long and distressing period for the affected individuals and their families, were flawed software led to unjust criminal prosecutions. The Horizon IT system, operated by Fujitsu, erroneously reporting financial discrepancies, resulted in wrongful charges and prosecutions being taken against sub-postmasters across the UK, including Northern Ireland.


Carla Lockhart MP stated, "The extension of this vital legislation to Northern Ireland is a crucial step towards justice for local sub-postmasters, who have endured unimaginable hardship due to no fault of their own. It is a move that corrects a grave injustice, restores dignity to those affected, and reaffirms our commitment to upholding the principles of justice and fairness."


The DUP MP further emphasised the importance of government accountability and the need to ensure such errors are never repeated. "This situation highlights the critical need for rigorous oversight of technological implementations in public services and contracts. It is imperative that we learn from this failure and implement safeguards to prevent such occurrences in the future."



The Member of Parliament added her commendation of the continued work of campaigners fighting for justice: "Without the tireless dedication of Justice for Sub-postmasters Alliance this great injustice would not have received the coverage that has led to this legislation being passed in Parliament. Their dedicated striving for justice is an inspiration for many thousands across our country."

Share

By Carla Lockhart MP June 4, 2025
Open Farm Weekend an opportunity to experience life beyond farmgate
By Carla Lockhart MP June 4, 2025
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has welcomed the official laying of the Northern Ireland Centenary Stone in Waringstown, describing it as a meaningful and lasting tribute to 100 years of Northern Ireland’s history and identity.
By Carla Lockhart MP June 4, 2025
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has praised the community spirit and local pride on display at the Donaghcloney Classic Auto Show, hosted by the Donaghcloney Linen Green Association.
By Carla Lockhart MP June 4, 2025
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has praised the outstanding turnout and community effort at this year’s Portadown Commonwealth Parade, describing it as a “celebration of service, tradition, and togetherness.”
By Carla Lockhart MP June 4, 2025
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has welcomed the opening of the new Waiting List Reimbursement Scheme (WLRS), launched by the Department of Health on 2 June 2025, which aims to support patients in Northern Ireland who have faced lengthy waits for treatment or surgery.
By Carla Lockhart MP June 3, 2025
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has extended her congratulations to Alderman Stephen Moutray on his appointment as Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council.
By Carla Lockhart MP June 3, 2025
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has spoken out strongly against proposals to decriminalise abortion in Great Britain, warning that such a move would amount to legalising abortion on demand up to birth and removing vital safeguards for women and unborn children.
By Carla Lockhart MP May 31, 2025
Carla Lockhart, MP for Upper Bann, is encouraging parents, carers, teachers and concerned residents to share their views on the impact of smartphones and social media on children’s wellbeing, following a series of concerning findings discussed in Parliament last week.
By Carla Lockhart MP May 31, 2025
Carla Lockhart, MP for Upper Bann, attended the Charity Big Breakfast and Motorbike Ride-Out on Saturday morning, hosted by Portadown Ex-Servicemen’s LOL 608 and RBP 326 at Carleton Street Orange Hall and Heritage Centre.
By Carla Lockhart MP May 30, 2025
Farmers and industry stakeholders turned out in force at this week’s Nutrients Action Programme information event at the Greenmount campus in Antrim.
More Posts