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 November 19, 2025
The countdown is on ahead of the Chancellor’s autumn budget on 26 th November, and pressure is mounting on the Labour government to do an eleventh hour U-turn on its proposed changes to historic Agricultural Property Relief (APR) and Business Property Relief (BPR).
By Carla Lockhart MP November 19, 2025
Upper Bann MP, Carla Lockhart was at the Supreme Court today as judgment was handed down in the challenge brought against the place of religious education and collective worship in Northern Ireland’s schools.
By Carla Lockhart MP November 19, 2025
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has welcomed the installation of a new grit bin at the entrance to Linen Green in Waringstown, following a lengthy process to have the development formally adopted.
By Carla Lockhart MP November 19, 2025
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has praised the outstanding community spirit shown across the constituency following a busy day of engagements with local groups on Saturday.
By Carla Lockhart MP November 19, 2025
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has paid tribute to the service and sacrifice of the Armed Forces and security personnel after attending the Annual Service of Remembrance and Reflection at Bethany Free Presbyterian Church, Portadown.
By Carla Lockhart MP November 19, 2025
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has paid a heartfelt tribute to Mrs Weir of Banbridge, who has celebrated her 102nd birthday, describing her as “one of Banbridge’s finest” and a cherished figure within the local community.
By Carla Lockhart MP November 18, 2025
DUP Agriculture spokesperson, Carla Lockhart MP, has led a representation on behalf of the Ulster Farmers’ Union, to HM Treasury in Whitehall to hand in a letter protesting against proposed inheritance tax reforms.
By Carla Lockhart MP November 13, 2025
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has accused the UK government of leaving farmers in limbo over a number of critical and hugely concerning issues.
By Carla Lockhart MP November 13, 2025
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has warned that farmers, pet owners and vets in Northern Ireland could face serious disruption when the current grace period for supplying veterinary medicines ends on 31 December 2025 .
By Carla Lockhart MP November 12, 2025
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has praised the dedication of local volunteers supporting this year’s Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal in Banbridge, and joined with the community on Sunday to honour the fallen at the town’s Remembrance Service.