A MAN who was was infected with HIV by contaminated blood says he ‘could very well die’ before he receives compensation.

The 60-year-old, from Blackburn, who wishes to remain anonymous, was among hundreds of victims who reacted furiously to Friday’s Government statement detailing further delays to paying compensation for around 5,000 patients infected with hepatitis C and HIV between 1970 and 1991.

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The man, whose disease has recently developed from HIV to AIDS, branded the latest Government statement - saying a resolution may take until 2017 - a ‘disgrace’.

He became infected as a result of prisoners, sex workers and drug users’ blood being used in NHS transfusions for haemophiliacs.

He said: “It’s been a 30-year battle and we are still getting delays from Government.

“It’s time for the 5,000 victims to be compensated instead of people like me relying on charities.

“My disease has worsened and my blood results indicate I now have AIDS.

“People affected are dying at a rate of one per month.

“Like hundreds of others, I’m likely to die before I’m given compensation.

“France, Japan, Ireland and many other countries have given pay outs to victims.

“David Cameron apologised in the Commons to the victims earlier this year.

“But it’s time for actions, not words.”

Campaign group TaintedBlood represents many victims. Sue Threakall, from the group, said: “To say we are disappointed with the Government’s inability to resolve this within the five years they had in coalition, let alone the need for a further year or more, barely captures the disbelief we feel at being strung along for so long without tangible results. In fact, to quote one of our number today, it is downright cruel.”

Lord Prior of Brampton, speaking on behalf of the Department of Health, said: “While I understand that beneficiaries to the current schemes may be frustrated by this wait, this is an extremely complex and sensitive area and any reform plans must be carefully considered before a consultation can be launched.”