Five campaign and support groups, including The Haemophilia Society, have written to Sir Brian Langstaff, chair of the Infected Blood Inquiry, after some bereaved families who had been told their claims had been approved were instructed to submit more documentation.  

A spokesperson for The Haemophilia Society said: ‘The Haemophilia Society is extremely concerned that long overdue compensation claims have been left in limbo with no apparent solution in sight. This is causing great upset and confusion for families who have already suffered greatly as a result of this scandal.'

Paymaster general and minister for the cabinet office, Nick Thomas-Symonds, said: ‘We have listened to the recommendations from the Infected Blood Inquiry, heard the strong calls for change from the community and acted. 

‘I am concerned that families who have already suffered so much have received conflicting assessments of their position. I have instructed officials to work as quickly as possible with the infected blood community and representatives of the probate services to ensure people are able to access money to which they are entitled as soon as possible.

‘This Government's budget in October earmarked £11.8bn for the infected blood compensation scheme. We are determined to do everything possible to ensure payments are made to people, both infected and affected by this scandal, as soon as possible.'