Infected Blood Inquiry 2024-01-18
2024-01-18
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
▸
Context
The interim recommendations of the infected blood inquiry have been made, but there is concern over their implementation and delays in publishing the final report. Victims and families are seeking justice and compensation.
What progress has his Department made on implementing the interim recommendations of the infected blood inquiry? The publication of the final report into the infected blood scandal has yet again been delayed, causing dismay for hundreds of people, including some Chester constituents who are still waiting for justice. Given that the House showed majority support, will the Minister confirm that primary legislation will be introduced to enable a compensation scheme?
The Government are committed to updating Parliament on next steps within 25 sitting days of publication of the final report. The Victims and Prisoners Bill will now work through its next stage, with the Minister working with colleagues across government to ensure an appropriate response.
▸
Assessment & feedback
The specific timeline for introducing primary legislation was not confirmed
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
▸
Context
The publication of the final report into the infected blood scandal is delayed, causing distress among victims. The House has shown support for primary legislation to enable a compensation scheme.
Given that the House has shown its majority support, will the Minister confirm that the Government will introduce primary legislation early in the new year to establish a compensation scheme?
The Victims and Prisoners Bill is working through its next stage, with the Minister ensuring an appropriate response at that time.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Specific timeline for introducing primary legislation was not confirmed
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
▸
Context
The Minister's Department is responsible for coordinating government action on the infected blood scandal. Sir Robert Francis and Sir Brian Langstaff have indicated that the final report will not address compensation, causing concern among victims' families.
Does he understand that Sir Robert Francis and Sir Brian Langstaff have made it clear that the final report will say nothing more about compensation? People are dying or waiting for justice. Will 25 days after the report's publication in May be too long to wait for certainty and support?
The focus is on moving forward with the appointment of experts. Interim payments were made in October 2022, and meetings will continue to move this forward as quickly as possible.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Specific timeline for delivering payments was not confirmed
Response accuracy