The chief executive of NHS Lothian says he is “sincerely sorry” for the historic failings of the NHS following an enquiry focussed on the transmission of Hepatitis B, HIV and Hepatitis C through blood components and plasma products during the 1970s, 80s and early 90s.

The report found that more than 30,000 patients were "knowingly" infected with HIV or Hepatitis C during the 1970s’ and 80s’.

About 3,000 people died as a result.

READ MORE: Timeline of events leading up to the Infected Blood Inquiry

Calum Campbell, chief executive of NHS Lothian, said he was “sincerely sorry” for the historical failings.

He added: “We offer our most sincere and unreserved apologies to the patients and families who have been infected and affected by contaminated blood products.

“They have endured years of suffering because of failure to discuss risks and failings in treatment and care. Some of them received care in Edinburgh which went on to become part of the health board which is now NHS Lothian.

“We now live in a very different time and we offer our reassurance that as a modern-day healthcare system, NHS Lothian adheres to rigorous standards of patient safety, quality of care, clinical governance and duty of candour.”