ITV’s Portrayal of the Post Office Scandal
ITV’s dramatization of the Post Office scandal, hailed as one of Britain’s biggest legal injustices, spotlights the wrongful prosecutions of numerous subpostmasters for theft.
However, amidst its narrative, an integral figure appears conspicuously absent – Adam Crozier, former head of the Royal Mail Group, who later assumed leadership at ITV.
Adam Crozier’s Role and Omission
During Crozier’s tenure as CEO of the Royal Mail Group from 2003 to 2010, encompassing the period when the Post Office fell under its purview, subpostmasters faced legal pursuits despite asserting the fault lay with Horizon, the organization’s computer system.
Notably, while Toby Jones and Lia Williams portray pivotal figures, including campaigner Alan Bates and former Post Office chief Paula Vennells, respectively, there’s a glaring omission of Crozier’s character in the drama.
Crozier’s Professional Trajectory
Crozier departed Royal Mail in 2010 to helm ITV, concurrently serving as a director of ITV Studios, the production company behind the series dramatizing the scandal.
Under his leadership, ITV witnessed a remarkable surge in share price and diversified its revenue sources, reducing dependence on advertising by bolstering its production capabilities.
Calls for Crozier’s Accountability
The inquiry into the Horizon scandal and related court proceedings highlighted the tragic toll, with over 60 subpostmasters passing away without witnessing justice or receiving compensation by August of the prior year.
Critically, former employees directly affected by baseless accusations demanded Crozier’s appearance at the inquiry, underscoring his accountability for the devastating aftermath they endured.
ITV’s Perspective and Clarification
ITV clarified its stance, emphasizing that their portrayal, “Mr Bates vs The Post Office,” primarily focuses on the Justice for Subpostmasters Alliance led by Alan Bates.
Their dramatization chiefly revolves around Bates’ pursuit for justice, aligning it with Paula Vennells’ ascension as a turning point in the campaign, thus justifying their narrative selection.
Conclusion
Despite ITV’s narrative choice, the absence of Adam Crozier, a pivotal figure during the Post Office’s tumultuous phase, leaves a conspicuous gap in the portrayal of events.
The inquiry’s summoning of key individuals reflects the pressing need for accountability and closure for those whose lives were irrevocably affected by the scandal.