Sir Brian Langstaff to give evidence on public inquiries’ process
Chair of the Infected Blood Inquiry, Sir Brian Langstaff, will be questioned by MPs on the Public Administration and Constitutional Affairs Committee (PACAC) next Tuesday.
The purpose of the session is to consider two recommendations from Sir Brian Langstaff’s Infected Blood Inquiry report. The report recommended that PACAC examines how the Government should respond to calls for a Public Inquiry and how the implementation of Public Inquiry recommendations is scrutinised.
Sir Brian Langstaff’s report highlighted shortcomings in the current process where little can be done if the government refuses to hold a Public Inquiry. He proposes that, if there is sufficient parliamentary support for an inquiry, PACAC should play a role in considering it. MPs are likely to ask how this would work in practice.
Meeting details
MPs are also likely to ask about the role of committees in scrutinising public inquiries, as in his report he suggests it may be appropriate for PACAC to monitor whether an inquiry’s recommendations are implemented. MPs will likely ask about his reasoning and seek his views on alternative mechanisms such as establishing an independent body to oversee recommendations.