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 July 28, 2026
DUP Agriculture spokesperson Carla Lockhart MP has urged farmers and rural communities to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity following a recent spate of thefts targeting farms across Northern Ireland.
By Carla Lockhart MP July 22, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has criticised DAERA's plans to press ahead with a multi-million pound tender for the provision of an on-farm bovine TB biosecurity advice service.
By Carla Lockhart MP July 22, 2026
DUP Agriculture spokesperson Carla Lockhart MP has written to newly appointed DEFRA Secretary Dame Angela Eagle, requesting a meeting and inviting her to visit Northern Ireland to hear directly from farmers, businesses and industry leaders in Upper Bann.
By Carla Lockhart MP July 22, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has written to new Prime Minister Andy Burnham, urging him to place agriculture and national food security at the centre of his Westminster Government's agenda.
By Carla Lockhart MP July 15, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has praised the outstanding community spirit on display during a visit to the Killicomaine Fun Day, commending local volunteers and bonfire builders for their dedication in bringing the community together ahead of the Twelfth celebrations.
By Carla Lockhart MP July 15, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has welcomed confirmation from the Department for Infrastructure that a missing speed ramp on Mill Hill, Waringstown, will be reinstated following representations she made on behalf of concerned local residents.
By Carla Lockhart MP July 15, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has paid tribute to Waringstown Neighbourhood Watch as the organisation marked its 20th anniversary, praising its volunteers for two decades of dedication to keeping the village safe. 
By Carla Lockhart MP July 15, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has praised the organisers of a successful Eleventh of July Fun Day and Tea Dance in Lurgan, commending the outstanding community spirit on display ahead of the annual Twelfth celebrations.
By Carla Lockhart MP July 15, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has praised the tremendous turnout and community spirit displayed across Northern Ireland as thousands gathered to mark the Glorious Twelfth.
By Carla Lockhart MP July 15, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has hailed this year’s Royal Black Institution Demonstration at Scarva as a resounding success, describing it as a powerful celebration of faith, culture and community following record-breaking attendance.