Question to the Department for Business and Trade:

To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, with reference to the Written Ministerial Statement of 13 October 2025 entitled Volume 1 of the Post Office Horizon IT Inquiry report: Government response to recommendations, HCWS937, what steps his Department is taking to help ensure that vulnerable postmasters are aware of the 31 January 2026 deadline.

The Post Office has contacted the vast majority of current and former postmasters who may be eligible for the Horizon Shortfall Scheme (HSS). Following the announcement of the scheme’s closure date, the Post Office will write to postmasters again to ensure they are aware of the 31 January 2026 deadline, in line with the Public Accounts Committee’s recommendation. This step is part of ongoing efforts to ensure vulnerable postmasters are informed and supported throughout the process.