Question to the Northern Ireland Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, whether it is the Government's policy that victims in Northern Ireland of the infected blood scandal deserve as a matter of urgency the same financial recognition as those in Scotland, England and Wales due to the scandal having taken place under direct rule; and if she will meet representatives from Haemophilia Northern Ireland to discuss their concerns.

I am happy to confirm that The Infected Blood Inquiry is UK-wide and includes Northern Ireland. The contaminated blood scandal was an appalling tragedy and I urge all victims from Northern Ireland, or family members of victims, to engage with the Public Inquiry and I acknowledge the work of Haemophilia Northern Ireland to support some of those affected to do this. The Inquiry terms of reference include consideration of the question of financial assistance, including for those in Northern Ireland.