MP Ian Austin demands truth over blood scandal
Ian Austin has demanded that the Government reveals the truth about the contaminated blood scandal that left 2,400 people dead.
The Dudley North Labour MP demanded a 'full, fair and lasting settlement' for victims after speaking with constituents who were caught up in the scandal but not told of the risks involved.
It came as another MP accused the Government of running 'roughshod' over the wishes of victims by letting the Department of Health (DoH) be involved in the inquiry.
Last week Theresa May announced an investigation into how thousands of haemophiliacs and other patients were given blood products infected with hepatitis C and HIV during the 1970s and 1980s.
Mr Austin, who is a member of the all-party parliamentary campaign on haemophilia and contaminated blood, said he believes the facts of the scandal have been covered up for years.
“The stories I’ve heard from local people affected by contaminated blood have been horrendous," he said.
"I’ve been calling for a public inquiry so that they can get the truth about what happened and I’m pleased this has finally been announced but it’s vital we get the full facts.
“One of my constituents was infected with hepatitis C and exposed to the HIV virus, but was not informed of that by the NHS until years afterwards and he wants to be assured that the inquiry will reveal why the truth was hidden.
"Another wants the full facts about doctors and scientists who were being paid by American drug companies and how that led to patients in the UK being infected.
"He thinks that those deals have to be really properly and rigorously exposed by this inquiry, so that we can get to the bottom of whatever vested interests existed during this scandal."
“Many of those who survived infections are suffering financially through their inability to work due to various health conditions coupled with a lack of proper compensation and necessary support.
“I’ve been fighting the Government for years to do more to compensate and provide support for people who have suffered due to contaminated blood provided by the NHS.
“We must now keep the pressure up and a close eye on the inquiry as it is set up and undertakes its work."
In the Commons this week Labour MP Diana Johnson said allowing the DoH to be part of the probe was like 'asking South Yorkshire Police to lead an inquiry into the Hillsborough disaster'.
She has called for a full independent inquiry.
