Ahead of next week’s Budget, I have written with Dame Diana Johnson to the Chancellor to seek assurance that the Government are planning to announce the allocation of sufficient funds to deliver full compensation to victims of the infected blood scandal, in line with the recommendations of the Infected Blood Inquiry.
Brian Langstaff, Chair of the Infected Blood Inquiry, published his final recommendations on compensation on 5 April 2023. The report made 18 clear recommendations on who should receive compensation and how it should be delivered, particularly in the extension of payments to bereaved parents and children.
Given previous calls from the Chancellor and votes in the House of Commons, we anticipate a clear announcement during the budget on the 6th March the allocation of funds to fully compensate victims of the infected blood scandal.
We have also asked that the Chancellor provide reassurance in advance of the Budget to all those infected and affected by this appalling scandal that your Statement will explicitly address the contaminated blood scandal and enable the urgent delivery of compensation.
Dame Diana Johnson, with my persistent active support, has led the Commons fight for justice. Now is the time for necessary action to deliver justice and compensation for those affected by the biggest treatment disaster in the history of the NHS.
