Contaminated Blood

Debate between Diana Johnson and Jim McMahon

Tuesday 11th July 2017 Commons Chamber

[Diana Johnson]

The hon. Gentleman makes an important point, and I certainly agree.

[Jim McMahon (Oldham West and Royton) (Lab/Co-op)]

I pay tribute to the hon. Lady for her outstanding leadership on this important issue. My constituent Alex Smith has been affected by contaminated blood. A great deal has been said about the Government response and the potential criminal cover-up, but there is also the immoral way in which the victims have been treated and the payments they receive. Many are living in absolute destitution and poverty as a result of Government penny-pinching, which should form part of the review.

[Diana Johnson]

My hon. Friend is correct. We need to look carefully at the support that has been provided for this group, and at what should be provided in the future.