Richard visited the Infected Blood Compensation Authority recently.
Speaking after the visit, Richard said:
"Blood products in the U.K. are now very safe. I’ve given blood myself and am looking forward to doing so again soon.
However, during the 1970s, 80s and early 90s, thousands of British people were contaminated with infected blood from poor sources overseas. This led to thousands getting HIV and Hepatitis C. The majority of those most affected were those who have bleeding disorders, like haemophilia, but it affected thousands who had a transfusion.
In May, the Government published its response to the Infected Blood Inquiry’s report, accepting all recommendations in full or in principle. A few days later, campaigners returned to Westminster to mark the first anniversary of the Inquiry’s findings, and to send a strong message that too many people are still waiting for justice.
Earlier this month, I visited in my role as Shadow Paymaster General the Infected Blood Compensation Authority (IBCA) and their Chief Executive, David Foley, to see first-hand how the team is progressing with this enormous task. I met dedicated staff working under real pressure to get support to those affected. Some straightforward claims are settled within days, yet complex cases still face frustrating delays, often because extra clinical evidence is needed.
I followed up on that visit by meeting the Chief executive of The Haemophilia Society UK to hear directly from the community IBCA was set up to serve. Although funding has been promised to improve care, it hasn’t yet been released, and the wider cultural and systemic changes recommended by the Inquiry across government and the NHS have yet to begin.
People affected by this scandal deserve better, and I will keep pressing ministers until every person affected receives the fairness they deserve."
