Alan Bates set up and led the Justice for Sub-Postmasters Alliance in a decades long battle to expose the Post Office’s actions in what is possibly the worst miscarriage of justice ever recorded in this country. This battle for justice is ongoing.

Mr Bates refused an OBE because he felt it was wrong to accept it whilst the former Post Office CEO held a CBE. Granting a knighthood to Alan Bates will acknowledge the struggle he has had to bring this injustice to light and the great benefit he has given to the sub-postmasters who have suffered throughout this ordeal. It will also demonstrate that this country values the dedicated work of individuals who stand up to corporations when they knowingly act wrongly to the detriment of their employees.

You might have watched the TV series Mr Bates vs The Post Office - which is harrowing. The Justice For Sub-postmasters Alliance website is where you can see all the work needed to bring this miscarriage of justice to light is here: jfsa.org.uk The detail is even more harrowing than the TV portrayal.

The documentary Mr Bates vs The Post Office has undoubtably galvanized the British public and Parliament into action. But, and this is a very big but, none of this would have been possible if Alan Bates had not set up and led the Justice For Sub-postmasters Alliance. Without this dedicated and resolute work there would not now be the evidence and will to right the horrendous and devastating wrong that has wrecked many hundreds of lives. My view is the public wish to recognise Alan Bates' courage in standing up to the Post Office and his tenacity in keeping the campaign alive until the wrong in made right. I hope he succeeds in his mission and will accept the honour if it is offered to him. His tireless perseverance and integrity is truly inspirational. 

I hope that the decision will be taken to offer a knighthood to Alan Bates as soon as the formalities are completed rather than waiting for the publication of the King's Birthday Honours list. 

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