Local MP Demands Justice for Those Let Down by Infected Blood Compensation Changes

Tom Gordon, Liberal Democrat MP for Harrogate and Knaresborough, has demanded answers from the government following changes to compensation rules that have left hundreds of infected blood victims severely short-changed.

Speaking in Parliament during a statement on the infected blood scandal, Tom raised concerns about new regulations that have excluded around 915 people, including one of his constituents, infected with Hepatitis C under the Special Category Mechanism (SCM) from the compensation they were previously promised. 

Under the original guidelines, this group was assured that their compensation would be brought in line with those living with cirrhosis, and that they would not be asked to undergo further rounds of evidence gathering. But changes made in the February 2025 Supplementary Regulations removed these commitments — without warning or a clear process for appeal.

According to figures published by the Infected Blood Community Alliance (IBCA), those affected by this change now stand to lose between £300,000 and £350,000 each compared to what they would have received under the August 2024 recommendations – a devastating blow for those who were counting on justice after decades of suffering. 

Tom is deeply disappointed to hear that his constituent — and hundreds of others across the country — have been so severely let down. As a result, yesterday, in Parliament, Tom pressed the Minister to explain why provisions were removed, what redress is now available, and what steps are being taken to uphold the promises made to this group. 

Tom recognises that many in the infected blood community felt blindsided by these changes, learning of them only through the updated regulations. After years of reassurances, they are now facing significant financial loss with little explanation or support. Tom is committed to standing up for those affected and pushing for their full and fair compensation.  

The issue is part of a wider failure in the government’s rollout of compensation. Since the Infected Blood Compensation Authority was launched in August 2024, only 106 people have received payments, with another 54 offers made. At this pace, the 2029 target for completing compensation is in serious doubt. 

The Liberal Democrats are urging the government to set out clearly, and in detail, the timelines for delivering compensation – and to reaffirm that all eligible victims will receive compensation by 2029. 

Commenting, Tom said: 

‘It’s absolutely shocking that the government has gone back on its word — leaving more than 900 people facing a shortfall of hundreds of thousands of pounds.

‘Ministers must explain why these provisions were removed and what redress is now available. This broken promise is a clear breach of trust – and it must be urgently put right.

"More broadly, the government must now deliver the compensation scheme swiftly and fairly for all those still awaiting payments. Victims have waited decades for justice, and the government must commit to a clear and fair timeline — ensuring all eligible victims receive compensation by 2029.’ 

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