§ Dr. NaysmithTo ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will pay compensation to patients with haemophilia and other blood disorders who have contracted hepatitis C through infected blood transfusions; and if he will make a statement. [156858]
§ Mr. DenhamWe have reviewed the previous Government's decision not to offer financial assistance to haemophilia patients infected with hepatitis C through blood products. We concluded that an exception could not be made to the general rule that compensation or financial help is only given when the National Health Service, or individuals working in it, have been at fault.