Cabinet Office publishes final response to Infected Blood Inquiry report
The Cabinet Office has published its final response to the Infected Blood Inquiry's May 2024 report, accepting all 12 recommendations either in full or in principle. The response also outlines progress made by the UK and devolved governments in implementing the Inquiry’s recommendations. Through the Infected Blood Compensation Authority (IBCA), the government has already distributed £96.6m in compensation and over £1.2bn in interim payments, including £100,000 payments to both infected beneficiaries and bereaved partners. Key initiatives outlined in the response include plans to establish permanent memorials across the UK, implement enhanced liver monitoring for hepatitis patients, and allocate £500,000 to patient advocacy charities. The response also confirms that Sir Robert Francis KC will continue as the IBCA Interim Chair for the next 18 months. In total, the government has set aside £11.8bn to deliver the compensation scheme, which offers both lump sum and periodic payment options.