Paula Vennells may have known about allegations Horizon could be remotely accessed
In one other a part of the tapes, Post Office officers relay conversations with Ms Vennells on how the Second Sight probe – commissioned by the Post Office for an impartial investigation – could elevate the spectre of a “miscarriage of justice”.
Ms Crichton is heard saying: “So Paula agrees that the unique scope of the investigation didn’t go so far as taking a look at whether or not it was the miscarriage of justice level, Ron and Ian.
“So that’s, that’s not what she’s on the lookout for. She’s on the lookout for the systematic – or systemic quite, not systematic – systemic weak point within the Horizon programs.
“But not, as I mentioned, it doesn’t go on to that subsequent level round whether or not or not it’s brought on the miscarriage of justice, or suspension of a sub-postmaster.
“Because I believe that, when you discovered it, then it’s as much as us to search for and see what influence it would be, if that occurs,” Ms Crichton is heard saying.
A press release launched on behalf of Ms Vennells by her legal professionals mentioned: “I proceed to assist and give attention to co-operating with the inquiry and anticipate to be giving proof within the coming months.
“I’m really sorry for the devastation brought on to the sub-postmasters and their households, whose lives had been torn aside by being wrongly accused and wrongly prosecuted on account of the Horizon system.
“I now intend to proceed to give attention to helping the inquiry and won’t make any additional public remark till it has concluded.”
Susan Crichton didn’t reply to Channel 4 News’ requests for remark.
Fujitsu declined to remark.
A Post Office spokesperson mentioned: “We remain fully focused on getting to the truth of what happened and supporting the statutory public inquiry, which is chaired by a judge with the power to question witnesses under oath, and is therefore best placed to help achieve this.”
