Infected Blood Scandal: UK Government Pledges Comprehensive Compensation
The UK Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak, has announced a commitment to provide comprehensive compensation for victims of the infected blood scandal, which resulted in 30,000 people being infected with HIV and hepatitis due to NHS care between the 1970s and 1990s. This announcement follows the publication of a damning report by the Infected Blood Inquiry, which exposed significant failings and a subsequent cover-up involving doctors, the NHS, and government authorities.
Approximately £10 billion has been reportedly earmarked for compensation. The details will be discussed in Parliament, with Cabinet Office Minister John Glen expected to provide further specifics. The scandal resulted in the deaths of about 3,000 individuals, and more deaths are anticipated.
The inquiry, chaired by Sir Brian Langstaff, concluded that the tragedy could have been largely avoided. Deliberate attempts to conceal the truth, including the destruction of documents by officials, were highlighted.
Political figures, including Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer and Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham, have also weighed in, with Burnham calling for a “Hillsborough law” to enforce transparency among public servants. Additionally, there are calls for corporate manslaughter charges against those responsible.
The government has already made interim payments of £100,000 to around 4,000 survivors and bereaved partners. Further interim payments may be announced ahead of the full compensation scheme.
Health officials and affected families have welcomed the inquiry's findings, although there is acknowledgment that the delay in justice has mitigated the accountability of those involved.