Key Testimony from Hugh Flemington, Former Head of Legal at Post Office Limited, Raises Questions About Prosecution Strategy and Horizon System Reliability
The ongoing inquiry into the Horizon scandal took a dramatic turn today as the spotlight shifted to the role of external lawyers in the prosecution strategy of the Post Office.
At 4.20pm, the inquiry heard that prosecutions effectively ended when Cartwright King and its lawyers raised doubts about the reliability of Gareth Jenkins’ evidence. Bowyer, a barrister and director of Cartwright King, admitted that while their role as independent lawyers may not have been covered, their intervention did halt the prosecutions and kickstart the disclosure process.
Sir Wyn Williams, the chair of the inquiry, decided to wrap up for the day despite counsel not being done with Bowyer, promising a continuation of the proceedings tomorrow.
Earlier in the day, at 4pm, it was revealed that despite concerns about Jenkins’ evidence, he continued to be instructed as an expert witness in Horizon cases. Bowyer admitted that this was a mistake in hindsight.
The inquiry delved into Bowyer’s advice on prosecution strategy for the Kim Wylie case in 2012, where he emphasized the need to prove the integrity of the Horizon system. Bowyer defended his position, stating that he was assured the system was robust at the time.
As the day progressed, more revelations emerged about the decision-making process behind the prosecutions and the handling of expert witnesses. The inquiry also highlighted the challenges faced by the Post Office’s legal team in ensuring accurate and transparent communication with the public and defense solicitors.
The testimony of Harry Bowyer and the discussions around the Cartwright King’s involvement in the Horizon cases shed light on the complexities and potential shortcomings in the prosecution strategy. The inquiry will continue tomorrow with further examination of the legal aspects of the Horizon scandal, promising more revelations and insights into the events that led to this unprecedented crisis.
