Meeting of the Parliament 11 February 2026 [Draft]
The Government will be responsible for the implementation of the recommendations that fall under the responsibility of the Government that are made by the public inquiry. We will also ensure that NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde is held accountable to ensure the speedy implementation of the recommendations that are made to it.
I will not seek to pre-empt the issues that the new oversight group will review. I welcome its intention to include whistleblowers, patient representatives and the public in its work. The group will draw on the expertise of national agencies such as NHS Scotland Assure, Healthcare Improvement Scotland and industry experts to continue to demonstrate that the Queen Elizabeth university hospital provides a safe environment for patients and staff. However, given the significant level of political and public interest, I agree that it is vital that the Parliament also be kept updated on the group’s work. That is what my amendment seeks to ensure.
I turn to the important issues of water safety, ventilation and infection control that are highlighted in Labour’s motion. Ministers have already placed on the record our confidence in the safety of the Queen Elizabeth university hospital, but I will set out that case again.
First, I have absolute confidence in the leadership of the board and the chief executive of NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde and their ability to ensure the cultural change that is needed in Glasgow. That is vital in ensuring that whistleblowers are protected and supported to speak up. When I met Scotland’s new national independent whistleblowing officer last week, I reiterated the Government’s commitment to a safe whistleblowing culture.
Secondly, the inquiry heard from independent expert Andrew Poplett that the water system management is now “extremely well managed”, with “significant improvement” having been made.