By Ben Kerrigan-
Campaigners seeking compensation for victims of the infected blood scandal have attacked the British government the Government should be “ashamed”, after ministers refused to commit to compensation proposals for victims of the infected blood scandal.
Individuals who were infected o affected by the scandal met Cabinet Office minister Oliver Dowden and health minister Nadine Dorries in London on Tuesday, but left empty handed and disappointed.
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The contaminated blood scandal left thousands of patients infected with hepatitis and HIV, causing many early deaths. Many victims and relatives feel cheated and let down by the government after calls for compensation were rejected by ministers .
The mass contamination emanated from the United States Of America after several products supplied by the NHS in the 1970s and 1980s used blood obtained from prisoners and drug addicts who were paid for their donations. Imported products were inadequately screened.
Des Collins, senior partner at Collins Solicitors, representing more than 1,400 people in relation to the Infected Blood Inquiry, said that the system in England was more like “benefits” than compensation.
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He added: “The Government has made payments without admitting liability.”Mr Collins said the Government was being “intransigent” and added: “Today the Cabinet Office have said that their hands are tied in relation to the issue of paying compensation, because of the ongoing public inquiry.
“This couldn’t be further from the truth. The inquiry cannot determine civil or criminal liability – nor can it award compensation.
“It is a terrible missed opportunity that will have a real impact on those affected’s lives.”
A Cabinet Office spokesman said: “The infected blood scandal should never have happened and we established this inquiry so that all those who suffered can get the answers they deserve.
“Campaigners raised a number of issues about the support that would assist them outside of the inquiry process.
“Ministers have committed to looking at these issues carefully and to report back on where rapid progress can be made.
Image:news.sky.com
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