The Potential Second Post Office IT Scandal: Uncovering the Capture Software Controversy

In the wake of the notorious Horizon scandal, which saw hundreds of sub-postmasters wrongfully convicted between 1999 and 2015, a new report has emerged that raises alarming questions about the predecessor software, Capture. An independent investigation conducted by Kroll, a risk advisory and financial solutions company, has found a "reasonable likelihood" that Capture created financial shortfalls for sub-postmasters prior to the Horizon debacle. This revelation has reignited discussions about accountability, justice, and the need for reparations for those affected.

The Background of Capture Software

Capture was rolled out to Post Office branches starting in 1993, intended to streamline accounting processes and reduce the burden of manual bookkeeping. However, as the Kroll report suggests, the software may have been fundamentally flawed. At least 40 former sub-postmasters have come forward, claiming they were falsely accused of theft due to "glitches" within the Capture system. These allegations echo the experiences of those affected by the Horizon scandal, where erroneous shortfalls led to devastating consequences for many.

Findings of the Kroll Report

The Kroll report indicates that approximately 13.5% of all branches may have utilized Capture, raising concerns about the widespread impact of its potential failures. The investigation revealed that sub-postmasters often faced pressure from network and area managers to adopt the system, which they were told would simplify their accounting tasks. However, many reported a lack of guidance and support when using Capture, leading to confusion and errors.

One of the most troubling aspects of the report is its assertion that legal investigation teams at the time did not adequately consider the possibility of "bugs or errors" in the Capture system. This oversight raises serious questions about the thoroughness of the investigations into alleged thefts and shortfalls, potentially contributing to the wrongful convictions that have since come to light.

Personal Stories of Injustice

The human cost of the Capture software’s failures is exemplified by the stories of individuals like Steve Marston and Steve Lewis. Marston, who was wrongfully convicted of theft and false accounting after auditors discovered a £79,000 shortfall at his branch in Greater Manchester, described Capture as "totally unfit for use." He recounted being told that the software would simplify his work, only to find himself navigating a system that lacked proper guidance and support.

Similarly, Lewis lost his job in 2000 after raising concerns about Capture’s glitches. He expressed the emotional toll of being labeled a thief, stating, "I’ve always been looked on as being the man who robbed the post office." His experience highlights the stigma and financial ruin that many sub-postmasters faced as a result of the software’s failures.

The Path Forward: Calls for Justice and Reparations

In light of the Kroll report’s findings, there are growing calls for a platform to facilitate exoneration and reparations for those affected by the Capture software. Neil Hudgell, a solicitor representing some of the victims, emphasized the need for a speedy resolution, whether through new legislation or referrals to the Criminal Cases Review Commission (CCRC). The urgency of these calls reflects the deep-seated desire for justice among those who suffered due to the flawed systems.

The government has acknowledged the need for further investigation into Capture, with plans for an independent expert review of the evidence. This includes material submitted by sub-postmasters, such as floppy disks containing the software, which may provide crucial insights into the nature of the glitches and errors that plagued the system.

Conclusion: A Call for Accountability

The revelations surrounding the Capture software serve as a stark reminder of the importance of accountability in technological systems that impact people’s lives. As the investigation unfolds, it is imperative that the voices of those affected are heard and that justice is served. The potential for a second scandal, akin to the Horizon debacle, underscores the need for vigilance and thorough scrutiny of systems that are entrusted with financial integrity.

As the Post Office grapples with the implications of the Kroll report, the stories of individuals like Steve Marston and Steve Lewis must not be forgotten. Their experiences highlight the human cost of technological failures and the urgent need for a comprehensive approach to reparations and justice for all those wronged by the Capture software. The path forward must prioritize transparency, accountability, and a commitment to ensuring that such injustices are never repeated.