HC Deb 04 December 1989 vol 163 cc65-6W
Mr. Wigley

To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many representations he has received subsequent to the recent statement on additional aid to haemophiliac sufferers who have contacted the HIV virus arising from blood transfusions; of these how many have pressed for a more substantial settlement for such sufferers; and if he will make a statement.

Mrs. Virginia Bottomley

[holding answer 30 November 1989]: We have received three representations to date seeking additional financial help. As my right hon. and Learned Friend the Secretary of State for Health announced on 23 November, our objectives are to give £20,000 lump sum payments to those affected, on an ex-gratia basis, and to enable the Macfarlane Trust to continue on a more generous scale their help to families in particular need. However, compensation is a matter for the courts.