"They failed the victims and their families and they failed this country

Scandal dragged on for decades as people died

THE contaminated blood scandal has been called the worst treatment disaster in NHS history. Here is a timeline of key dates.

1983
The WHO and the Lancet say people with haemophilia should be told about the risks of using blood products.

1984
Heat-treated blood products become available, which deactivate viruses in the product.

1986
Blood donations begin to be tested for HIV.

1989
The UK government provides financial support to people infected with HIV via contaminated blood products.

1991
Blood donations begin to be tested for hepatitis C.

2004
The government launches a fund to provide people infected with hep C through contaminated blood products with financial support.

2016
The Factor 8 campaign group is set up, with the aim of advocating on behalf of those impacted by contaminated Factor VIII and

Factor IX concentrate blood products. David Cameron announces every victim of the NHS contaminated blood scandal will get a regular annual support payment.

2017
Infected blood support schemes are set up across the UK.

July 11
Theresa May announces there will be an independent public inquiry into what she called an "appalling tragedy".

July 2 2018
The Infected Blood Inquiry is formally established.

April 2019
The inquiry begins hearing evidence from those infected and those affected.

May 21, 2021
Health secretary Matt Hancock appears at the inquiry, telling it the Government will pay compensation to people affected by the contaminated blood scandal if an inquiry recommends it.