Accused sub-postmasters 'dragged through the mud'

The Post Office failed to find out why large cash shortfalls occurred at sub-post offices before starting civil and criminal proceedings against sub-postmasters, says an independent report.

The report looked into complaints by sub-postmasters of unfair sackings and wrongful convictions caused by flaws in control systems.

The Post Office vehemently denies the report's conclusions.

A former Conservative MP who is leading the campaign to help sub-postmasters said there should be a judge-led investigation into the Post Office’s handling of the issue.

“These are people who have been pillars of the community and have their reputations dragged through the mud,” said James Arbuthnot.

“The way they have been treated is an utter disgrace.”