Prime Minister Rishi Sunak expressed sincere remorse for the devastating failures surrounding the infected blood scandal, characterizing it as a profound moral failure spanning decades.
His response came following the release of the public inquiry’s report into the scandal, which revealed shocking details of negligence and cover-ups that led to the infection of 30,000 individuals through contaminated blood treatments.
Describing the findings as a “day of shame for the British state,” Sunak acknowledged the immense suffering inflicted upon victims and their families.
The Infected Blood Inquiry unequivocally condemned doctors, government officials, and the NHS for their roles in allowing patients to contract HIV and hepatitis, leading to approximately 3,000 deaths, with more expected to follow.
Sunak, addressing the House of Commons, offered a heartfelt apology for the failures, recognizing the systemic shortcomings that persisted for decades.
He denounced the pervasive attitude of denial and pledged to provide comprehensive compensation to victims, vowing to cover all necessary costs. The Prime Minister emphasized that the nation must confront this grievous injustice and take full responsibility for its actions.
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer echoed Sunak’s sentiments, extending his own apology and acknowledging the profound suffering endured by victims. He characterized the scandal as one of the gravest injustices in the country’s history and emphasized the urgent need for accountability and restitution for those affected.
