Inquiry lawyers had to use legal powers to force a former Post Office investigator to appear at a hearing today.
In an extraordinary start to his appearance in front of the Post Office Horizon IT inquiry, Raymond Grant was asked by counsel Jason Beer KC why his witness statement was “so short”.
His question came after Mr Grant confirmed the legitimacy of his signature on the third page – suggesting the document was just three pages in length.
The question prompted a rambling answer from Mr Grant, who explained this was down to a “clash of priorities” including the fact he was dealing with Christmas dinners and carol services at the homeless centre he worked at.
He told the inquiry that he decided his job was more important than dealing with his witness statement at the time.
Mr Grant also said he was ultimately visited by sheriff officers, who issued him with a Section 21 Notice – a legal power statutory inquiries can use to compel someone to give evidence.
Initially answering Mr Jason’s question about his witness statement, Mr Grant said: “I received the bundle of papers on December 5 last year.”
Mr Grant then explained he was a programme manager for Christmas homeless centre and that his job was to give the 30 residents the “level of respect and dignity they deserve.”
Mr Grant told the inquiry that he decided his job was more important than dealing with his witness statement at the time.
William Turner is a seasoned U.K. correspondent with a deep understanding of domestic affairs. With a passion for British politics and culture, he provides insightful analysis and comprehensive coverage of events within the United Kingdom.
