Theresa May announces inquiry into contaminated blood scandal

The Prime Minister, Theresa May has ordered an inquiry into the contaminated blood scandal in which more than 2000 people lost their lives.

The move came just hours before MPs held an emergency debate on thecontaminated blood scandal.

Commons Speaker John Bercow granted the debate after a request from Hull MP Diana Johnson, who said ministers had failed to consider evidence of criminal activity.

The scandal took place in the 1970s and 80s when patients were given blood contaminated with HIV and Hepatitis C.

Many of those affected were haemophiliacs - born with a condition which means that their blood does not clot properly, meaning any bleeding incident could potentially be fatal.

The Prime Minister's spokesman told a Westminster briefing: "Jeremy Hunt said that 2,400 people had died and it was necessary to establish the causes of this appalling injustice."

Details of the UK-wide investigation have yet to be finalised.

Louisa Paintin from Selby lost her father in the year 2000, after he was infected with Hepatitis C. Today she spoke to Calendar about her relief at the government's decision.