Prime Minister Sunak Apologizes for Infected Blood Scandal, Calls It a ‘Day of Shame’ and Pledges Comprehensive Compensation

Rishi Sunak expresses regret to victims of the contaminated blood scandal, describing it as a 'day of disgrace for the British government'

The Prime Minister extends a "sincere and absolute" apology following the release of the inquiry's final report, assuring that the government will cover "all necessary expenses" in damages.

Political correspondent @NifS

Tuesday, May 21, 2024, 06:

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Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has issued a complete and unambiguous apology to those affected by the contaminated blood scandal, describing it as a "day of disgrace for the British government".

Prime Minister Sunak declared that the conclusions of the Infected Blood Inquiry's ultimate report are profoundly disturbing and should deeply impact our country. He committed to providing "extensive compensation to both the infected individuals and those impacted," emphasizing, "We will cover whatever expenses are necessary to implement this program."

Sir Brian Langstaff, the head of the investigation, attributed the blame for 30,000 individuals contracting HIV or Hepatitis C through blood products to repeated errors by various governments, the NHS, and blood services. Approximately 3,000 of those affected have since passed away.

The prime minister stated that a government apology must be paired with concrete actions to be considered "meaningful."

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Addressing Parliament, Prime Minister Sunak described the situation as a "disaster," highlighting the report as evidence of a "long-standing ethical collapse at the core of our societal existence." He criticized the NHS, government officials, and ministers, stating that "the very institutions we rely on failed us profoundly and tragically."

The prime minister stated that they "let this country down," further commenting: "Over and over, individuals in roles of authority and responsibility had opportunities to halt the spread of those infections. Over and over, they did not succeed in doing so.

"I sincerely and unreservedly apologize for this grave injustice."

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Highlighting critical aspects of the report, which include everything from the destruction of documents to lapses in screening processes, Mr. Sunak noted that there was "layer upon layer of hurt endured across decades."

He further expressed regret for the "systematic denial to acknowledge these shortcomings and, even more grievously, to reject and try to conceal them," stating, "This is an apology from the government to every individual affected by this debacle.

"This situation was avoidable; it should never have occurred. I offer sincere apologies on behalf of this administration and all those that have been in power since the 1970s."

Labour chief Sir Keir Starmer issued an apology on behalf of his party during a session in the Commons, stating: "I want to recognize and admit to everyone affected that, among the many other shortcomings, the political system itself let you down.

"This shortcoming is shared by every group involved, my own included. The only thing left to say is 'sorry.'"

Explore further: 100 profiles from the blood infection scandal. Analysis: The report is tough to digest but confirms the victims' claims. Recap of the day: The harrowing exposé of a 'chilling' cover-up unveiled.

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In the document published on Monday, Sir Brian presented a dozen suggestions, such as establishing a prompt payment system for victims and mandating urgent Hepatitis C testing for all individuals who underwent blood transfusions prior to 1996.

He further demanded restitution, which Mr. Sunak confirmed would be provided, with details to be disclosed in the Commons on Tuesday.

In a conversation with Sky News' Sarah-Jane Mee, he cautioned that the "catastrophe" of the scandal was still unfolding, noting, "Over 3,000 have perished, with fatalities continuing to occur week after week."

"I want people to understand that this isn't just an event of the past. It's still ongoing."

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Sir Brian stated that the misfortune that befell the victims was not accidental, emphasizing, "Individuals placed their confidence in doctors and the government for their safety. That confidence was tragically violated."

"Subsequently, the government intensified the distress by consistently stating that no misconduct had occurred."

He wished the report would prevent the recurrence of these errors.

Speaai-allcreator.com">king to Sky News, he said: "It's crucial to prevent an additional 30,000 individuals from being hospitalized and subsequently suffering from preventable, life-altering infections that were not accidental."

"We urge the government not to adopt a defensive stance on these issues but to be open and proactive, as I have outlined."

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