The government is considering creating an independent compensation body to manage payouts in future public sector scandals. The move comes amid mounting pressure from campaigners and victims, including Post Office whistleblower Alan Bates.
The proposed body would operate at arm’s length from ministers. It aims to eliminate government interference in redress processes and ensure fair treatment for claimants. Sources say discussions are ongoing within Whitehall, but the concept is gaining traction.
Alan Bates, a long-time advocate for justice, has criticized the current system. He believes government-led schemes allow officials to impose rigid legal rules that deny many victims their full compensation. Bates recently rejected a final offer worth just 49.2% of his claim.
Recent public inquiries have exposed serious failures in compensation processes. Victims of the Windrush scandal described being retraumatized by delays and bureaucracy. Some infected blood victims died before receiving any compensation. And Post Office operators were tried in what Bates called a “quasi kangaroo court.”
The independent compensation body would aim to avoid such systemic failures. It would establish clear, consistent eligibility rules and oversee payments with input from victims themselves. Advocates say this model would better reflect the needs of those harmed by institutional negligence.
Despite likely resistance from civil servants, officials confirm that planning work has already started. The new body would build on existing schemes, including four compensation programs for Horizon scandal victims. These programs have paid out £633 million to 4,300 people.
A government spokesperson reiterated its commitment to justice. They highlighted that £964 million in total compensation has reached 6,800 Post Office claimants. However, campaigners argue that one-off payments are not enough. They insist systemic change is essential to prevent future injustices.
The call for an independent compensation body reflects growing frustration. Victims and advocates no longer trust government departments to manage redress fairly. Reformers argue the new structure would restore credibility and fairness to how the state handles its own failures.
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