Blood scandal victims face delays seen in Iraq War inquiry
Thousands of people were given blood contaminated with HIV and hepatitis in the 1970s and 1980s.
Last updated 11th Jul 2018
People who were given contaminated blood will suffer similar delays in their hunt for answers to those in the Iraq War investigation, ministers have been warned.
The SNP's Chris Stephens said those who may have a case to answer could cause delays via the Maxwellisation process, which enables those criticised to make representations prior to publication.
Sir John Chilcot hoped to publish the Iraq Inquiry report within two years of starting work in 2009 but it finally emerged in 2016 following delays, which included the Maxwellisation process.
The NHS contaminated blood scandal saw thousands of people given blood products infected with hepatitis viruses and HIV during the 1970s and 1980s.
Cabinet Office Minister David Lidington offered assurances that the independent team leading the inquiry, which will examine the treatment of those infected and the impact it has had on their families, is aware of the "need for speed''.
Speaking during Prime Minister's Questions, Mr Stephens (Glasgow South West) said: "My constituent and many infected blood campaigners remain concerned that the inquiry will be delayed, like Chilcot, by those who may have a case to answer through the Maxwellisation process.
"So does Mr Lidington agree that truth and justice should not be delayed and will he commit the Government to looking at legislative changes to the Maxwellisation process?''
Mr Lidington, deputising for Theresa May due to her attendance at the Nato summit, replied: "This is of course a tragedy which has caused unimaginable hardship and pain for the people affected.
"Let me say straight away that we also recognise the hard work that you and others from all political parties have put into campaigning on this issue.
"In relation to the specific issue raised, I'm sure you'll understand whether or not the inquiry adopts the Maxwellisation process is a matter for the independent inquiry itself.''
He added: "I do know having talked to Sir Brian Langstaff directly that he and his team are very mindful of the need for speed.
"Victims of infected blood continue to die and I know Sir Brian is determined to complete the inquiry's work as quickly as a thorough examination of the facts allows.
"The Government is committed to ensuring the inquiry has all the resources and everything else it needs to complete that task as rapidly as possible."