Rules are being changed “behind closed doors” when it comes to compensation for those impacted by the infected blood scandal, a Labour MP has suggested.
At Prime Minister’s Questions, Clive Efford also raised concerns about the “pace of payments”, as he urged the Government to engage with the victims and their families.
The Government is committed to “ensuring swift resolution and compensating in full”, Sir Keir Starmer told the Commons.
More than 30,000 people who received NHS treatment between the 1970s and early 1990s were infected with contaminated blood. Many contracted several viruses including hepatitis C and HIV.
Some 3,000 people died as a result and survivors are living with lifelong health implications.
On Wednesday, Eltham and Chislehurst MP Mr Efford said: “A year ago today, this House defeated the then-government over the contaminated blood scandal compensation scheme.
“So does (Sir Keir) agree with me that next week’s meeting scheduled with the campaign groups representing the victims must represent the start of those infected and affected being involved in the process that they fought so hard for, for so long, and too many died and failed to see?”
The Prime Minister replied: “We are committed to acting on the findings of the infected blood inquiry and ensuring swift resolution and compensating in full, and that’s why we announced £11.8 billion to compensate those who waited far too long for justice.
“And I’ll happily make sure that he gets a meeting with the Paymaster General to discuss the issues he’s raised.”
