Post Office victim Jo Hamilton hits out at new government: “Just pay it”

Post Office victim Jo Hamilton hits out at new government: “Just pay it”

As a film enthusiast with a heart for justice, I find myself deeply moved by Jo Hamilton’s unyielding spirit and her relentless pursuit of truth. Her personal experience as a victim of the Post Office scandal has not only fueled her activism but also serves as a stark reminder of the power of resilience in the face of adversity.


Jo Hamilton has voiced disapproval towards the newly established administration, advocating for ministers to provide reparations to the victims of the Post Office scandal – a debt incurred after years of relentless activism.

Hamilton asserted that no improvements have been made since his experience as a casualty of the flawed IT system, which led to numerous subpostmasters and mistresses being falsely accused of fraud and theft, as depicted in the ITV drama Mr. Bates vs The Post Office.

In an exclusive chat, I expressed my disappointment when I had hoped that the newly established administration would address the issues at hand, but unfortunately, it appears they’re not.

Essentially, the government machinery remains unaltered, with the same underlying dynamics persisting. Although fresh faces have taken over as ministers, it seems like things continue to operate in much the same way backstage, suggesting a consistent challenge ahead.

At the event, Hamilton appealed to both those present and those watching at home, encouraging their support for Sir Alan Bates upon his return to campaigning. He emphasized that there are still many tasks left undone.

Post Office victim Jo Hamilton hits out at new government: “Just pay it”

During her talk, Hamilton expressed: “In recent times, I visited Westminster and met with the latest minister. Let me assure you, there’s been no shift in circumstances.

“He has a plan. So when he comes back to the nation for help, please be there to support him.”

Highlighting that the Post Office has disbursed approximately £260 million for legal costs, Hamilton expressed his bewilderment, questioning why numerous victims of the scandal are still awaiting their compensation.

As reported by The Lawyer magazine following a Freedom of Information inquiry, the Post Office disbursed a total of £256.9 million among 15 legal firms and two barristers’ chambers between September 2014 and March 2024.

Hamilton stated, “Had they initially paid everyone, they would’ve avoided all the trouble.

As a dedicated cinema enthusiast, I find myself compelled to say: “When someone presents a reasonable demand, why resist? They’ve drastically reduced Alan’s share and disrupted our lives in the process. Given his modest nature, the claim won’t be exorbitant; it will be just. So let’s honor it. Stop spending money on lawyers to avoid paying us.

In light of Hamilton’s remarks, a representative from the Department of Business and Trade stated: “We acknowledge the immense hardship that postmasters have experienced and understand that they have been waiting far too long for justice. We are committed to addressing this issue promptly.

So, we’re putting in endless efforts throughout the government to provide them immediate, just, and prompt solutions aimed at alleviating their troubles.

As a supporter, I’m proud to share that we’ve disbursed more than £289 million to over 2,800 individuals through four reparation programs. Furthermore, we’ve made 253 GLO offers and launched a fresh compensation scheme aimed at expediting redress for those who have had their convictions overturned.

Mr Bates vs The Post Office is streaming on ITVX now.

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2024-09-12 16:36