Infected Blood Inquiry chief ‘won’t hesitate to name names’ as first phase of hearings closes
Factor VII blood products, Sir Brian Langstaff. Picture: Factor VIII / Infected Blood Inquiry - Credit: Archant
After 12 weeks of public hearings, the Infected Blood Inquiry heard from the last – for now – “infected and affected” witnesses on Friday.
A young Mark Ward - this picture was shown to the Infected Blood Inquiry. Picture: Mark Ward - Credit: Archant
The inquiry will resume and hear from from medical experts in February 2020,NHS decision-makers will be quizzed in June.
Sir Brian Langstaff, the former judge who is leading the inquiry, paid tribute to those who had given evidence so far, and re-iterated that the door was always open for witnesses.
He said: "It is to me remarkable that so many, despite their mixed emotions, have wanted to give evidence."
This phase of evidence has seen a number of witnesses - including Della Ryness-Hirsch, Mark Ward and Mark Stewart - discuss alleged failings in haemophilia care at the Royal Free Hospital.
Mark Stewart, infected with hepatitis C after being given contaminated Factor VIII blood products. Picture: Stewart family - Credit: Archant
You may also want to watch:
Clinicians, such as those from the Royal Free, are expected to be among those to appear before the Inquiry in June. More witnesses will be able to give evidence, and Sir Brian added he remained set on concluding the inquiry with the voices of those impacted by the treatment disaster - which saw thousands given blood products containing viruses like HIV and hepatitis C.
The former judge added he welcomed news that the government was "committed" to equalising support for those affected across the UK even as the inquiry continues.
Most Read
- 1 London Assembly elections: Camden, Barnet and Haringey's candidates
- 2 Swimmers launch legal challenge to charges at Hampstead Heath Ponds
- 3 Owner mourns Highgate station’s beloved black cat
- 4 North London nurses: 1% NHS pay offer is a 'kick in the teeth'
- 5 Matt Hancock to give evidence at Infected Blood Inquiry
- 6 'Unacceptable' HGV use by developers in Church Row writes off 3 cars
- 7 Seven things to do in Hampstead and Highgate after May 17
- 8 London elections 2021 live: Latest results as they come in
- 9 Home of the week: Charming Victorian home for sale in Stroud Green
- 10 England captain Harry Kane renews his shirt sponsorship with Leyton Orient
He added he would "not hesitate to name names" in his report, and said: "If there was fault, I intend to say so. And where actions are to be taken in remedy, I expect to make robust recommendations."
