Concerns over delays and repeated mistakes in the administration of the Infected Blood Compensation Scheme have been raised in Parliament by East Wight MP Joe Robertson.
Joe raised the case of his constituent Stan, whose father died after being infected through contaminated blood. Stan and his family have faced what feels like an endless wait for compensation, compounded by repeated errors in the administration of the scheme.
Speaking during Cabinet Office questions in the House of Commons, Joe warned that the infected blood scandal could become a “scandal within a scandal” if families continue to face delays and mistakes.
Joe said:
“I recently met with one of my constituents, Stan, whose father died through contaminated blood. Like many families, he is facing an endless delay through poor administration of the scheme.
It feels like it is a scandal within a scandal unfolding as mistakes are made and further stress is caused to families.
What steps is the Secretary of State taking to ensure that the scheme is administered properly, mistakes are cut out, and would she consider meeting with me to explore the issues raised by my constituent’s case?”
Responding, the Minister expressed her sympathy for Stan’s experience and acknowledged that it had been shared by too many people affected by the scandal. The Minister also agreed to arrange a meeting to discuss Stan’s case and the problems his family have encountered with the scheme.
