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 January 22, 2026
Upper Bann MP, Carla Lockhart, has broadly welcomed the Westminster Government’s Water White Paper, outlined this week in the House of Commons by DEFRA Secretary Emma Reynolds, describing it as a balanced and informed approach to improving water quality.
By Carla Lockhart MP January 21, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart is encouraging farmers to familiarise themselves with DAERA’s ‘new look’ direct farm support package, the Sustainable Agriculture Programme (SAP) – its £330m purse will be divided across a number of schemes.
By Carla Lockhart MP January 21, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has welcomed the completion of repair works to the damaged bridge wall adjacent to 41 Tullylish Road, Gilford, following concerns raised by local residents.
By Carla Lockhart MP January 21, 2026
DUP Agriculture spokesperson, Carla Lockhart MP, has reacted to the news that 338 jobs are at risk at the ABP Linden facility in Dungannon.
By Carla Lockhart MP January 15, 2026
The Redhouse Open Day, held in conjunction with dairy genetics company World Wide Sires, has been praised by Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart.
By Carla Lockhart MP January 15, 2026
DUP Agriculture spokesperson, Carla Lockhart MP, has challenged the Labour Government to do the honorable thing regarding its immoral inheritance tax reforms.
By Carla Lockhart MP January 15, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has questioned the Alliance Party’s sudden interest in farming.
By Carla Lockhart MP January 14, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has renewed her call for the proposed puberty blockers trial to be halted and cancelled by the UK Health Minister, urging both the UK Government and the Northern Ireland Health Minister to act decisively to protect children from irreversible harm.
By Carla Lockhart MP January 14, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has warned that road conditions across the constituency have deteriorated sharply following the recent cold snap, as she renewed calls on the Roads Minister to urgently “Fix Our Roads”.
By Carla Lockhart MP January 14, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has tabled an Early Day Motion (EDM) in Parliament to recognise and celebrate the 70th anniversary of Waringstown Women’s Institute and its longstanding contribution to community life in the village and surrounding area.