Fujitsu, the technology firm at the center of the Post Office IT scandal, continues to be awarded substantial UK government contracts, even as victims of the Horizon scandal have yet to receive full compensation. The company has been added to a new list of approved suppliers for government contracts valued at nearly £15 billion, known as the Digital Outcomes and Specialists 7 framework.
Despite its central role in the Horizon scandal, which led to hundreds of sub-postmasters being wrongly prosecuted between 1999 and 2015, Fujitsu has secured a £61 million contract to manage the HMRC system for self-assessment tax returns. This comes despite government pledges to prioritize British businesses and jobs, as stated by Chancellor John Healey.
Since the ITV drama "Mr Bates Vs. The Post Office" brought wider public attention to the scandal, Fujitsu has reportedly received over £500 million in taxpayer-funded contracts. The company has apologized and stated it will "contribute" to compensation, but has not yet paid any victims.
Lee Castleton, a former sub-postmaster who faced prosecution and bankruptcy due to the scandal, criticized Fujitsu's continued bidding for new contracts, stating the company should honor its commitment to refrain from seeking new business until the Post Office scandal is fully resolved. He argued that taxpayers continue to bear the financial burden while Fujitsu has not fulfilled its promises.
Liam Byrne, chair of the business and trade committee, highlighted the severity of the miscarriage of justice caused by Fujitsu's Horizon system and the company's conduct. He expressed astonishment that Fujitsu has not made any payment to victims and continues to receive public funds despite claims of stepping back from bidding. Byrne called for radical reform of public procurement, emphasizing a stronger preference for British companies.
Harriett Baldwin, shadow business minister, urged the government to utilize all available means to ensure swift compensation for the sub-postmasters.
A spokesperson for Fujitsu stated that the company is proud of its track record with HMRC and continues to work with the UK government to adhere to voluntary restrictions on bidding for new contracts. The spokesperson added that ongoing conversations regarding compensation contributions are taking place.
A Cabinet Office representative confirmed that all relevant procurement regulations are followed when awarding suppliers to commercial agreements.