§ 14. Mr. SpellerTo ask the Secretary of State for Health how many of the patients affected by an excessive dose of radiotherapy at the Royal Devon and Exeter hospital in 1988 have now received final compensation, interim compensation or no compensation to date.
§ Mr. FreemanI understand that the position on 12 March 1990 was that, of the 104 claims received so far, 11 have received full and final settlement of both pain, suffering and amenity and special claims, 57 claimants have received partial settlement, and 36 claimants have received no compensation as yet.
§ Mr. SpellerDoes my hon. Friend realise that it is two years since those people were damaged through the actions of our National Health Service? Will he accept that the pain, suffering and stress are far more than physical pain and suffering and will he do all that he possibly can on behalf of, for example, the only three of my eight constituents damaged who are still surviving, so as to get this unfortunate affair settled quickly, even if it is costly?
§ Mr. FreemanI can give that assurance to my hon. Friend, who, in a recent Adjournment debate, stood up most valiantly for his constituents. I will be in touch with the district health authority and. I will do as my hon. Friend requests.