§ Miss Emma NicholsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) what further consideration he has given to the settlement of compensation claims by haemophiliacs infected by the HIV virus through National Health Service blood transfusions: and what plans he has for an early out-of-court settlement with these victims;
(2) what further representations he has received regarding financial compensation for haemophiliacs infected by the HIV virus through National Health Service blood transfusions.
§ Mr. Alfred MorrisTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what study he has undertaken of compensation arrangements made by other Governments for people with haemophilia who, in the course of medical treatment, have been infected with HIV virus; and if he will now facilitate an out-of-court settlement of the claims of the British victims; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mrs. Virginia BottomleyWe have received 30 further representations from members about compensation for people with haemophilia and HIV infection since my hon. and learned Friend replied to the right hon. Member for Manchester, Wythenshawe (Mr. Morris) on 23 October at column318. We understand that a variety of schemes have been adopted in other countries, although some have made no special arrangements.
I am advised that the current legal action relating to haemophiliacs is sub-judice and it would therefore not be appropriate for me to comment further.