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Written question asked by Katrina Murray (Labour) on Thursday, 16 July 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 2 September 2026. It was answered by Kate Dearden (Labour) on Wednesday, 2 September 2026 on behalf of the Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade.

Horizon Shortfall Scheme: Appeals

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade, whether the Horizon Shortfall Scheme Appeals process contains any discretion to admit exceptional cases where the application of the eligibility criteria would prevent a claimant's compensation from being independently reassessed.

Answer

The Horizon Shortfall Scheme Appeals (HSSA) process was introduced in response to concerns raised by the Horizon Compensation Advisory Board (HCAB) that many applicants to the Horizon Shortfall Scheme (HSS) may not have received comprehensive legal advice when settling their claims. The eligibility criteria therefore exclude individuals who settled with the benefit of fully funded legal advice provided by the Post Office. These criteria were developed in consultation with the HCAB, claimants’ legal representatives and postmaster organisations.

This means that a small number of individuals have not been eligible to access HSSA. However, the appeals process was specifically designed to provide funded legal support from the outset, helping applicants to fully understand and pursue their claims.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
19685
Session
2026-27
Grouped for answer
Yes
Transferred
Yes
Subjects
Appeals Horizon shortfall scheme
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk