Government announces Chair of contaminated blood inquiry

The Government has today announced the Chair of the contaminated blood inquiry as Sir Brian Langstaff, a High Court Judge. The announcement, made via a Written Ministerial Statement, reveals that the inquiry will be established under the 2005 Inquiries Act, with full powers, including the power to compel the production of documents, and to summon witnesses to give evidence on oath.
Sir Brian will be the full time Chair of the inquiry from 1st May 2018. In the intervening period, a further consultation will be conducted on the inquiry’s Terms of Reference.
Charles Gore, Chief Executive of The Hepatitis C Trust, said:
“I am pleased that the appointment of a Chair for the inquiry means that progress can begin to be made in establishing answers for all those affected by this terrible injustice. We look forward to engaging with Sir Brian to ensure that patient’s voices are at the heart of the inquiry.” 
The Written Ministerial Statement from Cabinet Secretary David Lidington says:
“The infected blood scandal of the ’70s and ’80s was an appalling tragedy that should never have happened. The victims of this tragedy who have endured so much pain and hardship deserve answers. It is crucial that their views are properly reflected in the Inquiry’s Terms of Reference. [Sir Brian] will want to listen carefully to the voices of those that have suffered before making a recommendation to me on what the scope of the Inquiry should be. I will return to Parliament with the final terms of reference as soon as this process has been completed.
The Government will ensure that the inquiry has the resources that it needs to complete its work. The Inquiry will, of course, also be independent of the Government.
It is very important that the Inquiry can identify why and how this tragedy occurred and provide answers for the all victims who have suffered so terribly, and can identify lessons to be learned so that a tragedy of this scale can never happen again.”
If you have any concerns around hepatitis C and contaminated blood, our confidential helpline is open Monday-Friday from 10.30am-4.30pm and is staffed solely by people who have themselves been affected by hepatitis C. You can call the helpline on 0845 223 4424 or 020 7089 6221. Alternatively, you can email helpline@hepctrust.org.uk.