VIP Lounge Sponsorship Amidst Scandal Revelations
In a shocking revelation, it has come to light that Fujitsu, the Japanese technology giant, was a key sponsor of the Tory Party conference’s exclusive ‘Blue Room’ VIP lounge during the turbulent days of the Post Office scandal.
Despite being embroiled in the controversy surrounding its Horizon software, Fujitsu continued its sponsorship, rubbing shoulders with political figures such as Brexit Secretary David Davis and Chancellor of the Exchequer Philip Hammond.
Labour’s Complicated Connection with Fujitsu
Not limited to the Tories, Fujitsu was also a significant presence at Labour’s conference, making cash donations and maintaining an annual presence during Jeremy Corbyn’s leadership.
The Japanese corporation contributed £16,800 to Labour and interacted with both major political parties during the scandalous period.
Fujitsu’s Silent Role in the Post Office Scandal
Even as the Post Office scandal unfolded, with innocent sub-postmasters facing persecution due to Horizon’s faults, Fujitsu maintained a veil of silence.
The company’s knowledge of the flawed system and its failure to disclose critical information during court cases raised questions about its accountability in the miscarriage of justice.
Astonishing Government Contracts Despite Scandal Fallout
Contrary to expectations, Fujitsu secured an astonishing £4.9 billion in new contracts with the British government since 2019, despite being implicated in the Post Office scandal.
These contracts include significant deals with the Inland Revenue, the Financial Conduct Authority, and the Northern Ireland Education Authority.
Taxpayer Concerns and Calls for Accountability
Politicians from various parties have expressed concern over Fujitsu’s continued involvement with the government. Calls for a temporary ban on new contracts until the public inquiry concludes have intensified.
Former Tory minister Nadhim Zahawi and Liam Byrne, chair of the business select committee, emphasize the need for accountability, stating that the company should bear responsibility for the miscarriage of justice.
Fujitsu’s Role in Clearing Sub-Postmasters’ Names
Adding an ironic twist, Fujitsu, under a £48 million deal, now maintains the Police National Computer, the repository of all convictions.
Sub-postmasters seeking justice must rely on Fujitsu to clear their names formally. This, despite the fact that the firm’s role in the scandal raises significant ethical concerns.
Fujitsu Executives Under Scrutiny
Several Fujitsu executives, including UK boss Paul Patterson, have faced public scrutiny for their roles in the scandal.
The public inquiry is set to bring forth evidence from six present and former employees, shedding light on the extent of the company’s involvement and the actions of its top brass.
The Complex History and Financial Fallout for Fujitsu
The roots of Fujitsu’s involvement in the scandal date back to the mid-1990s when it secured a £1 billion contract for the flawed Horizon system.
Despite knowing about the system’s faults, Fujitsu maintained a secretive stance, and its subsequent lucrative contracts with the government have sparked public outrage.
As taxpayers face the financial burden of correcting this injustice, Fujitsu’s tarnished reputation remains at the center of a growing controversy.
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