£4 Million Boost Amid Concerns Over Delays and Justice for Victims

Detectives Receive Additional Funding for Gosport Hospital Investigation

Detectives investigating the deaths of 456 patients at Gosport War Memorial Hospital in Hampshire have been granted an additional £4 million to continue their long-running probe. This investigation, known as Operation Magenta, is one of the largest and most complex in British criminal history.

Despite the additional funding, concerns remain about potential delays in bringing justice to those affected by the deaths, which occurred between 1987 and 2001. The patients were prescribed powerful painkillers at the hospital, raising questions about the medical practices employed.

Families of the victims are urging police to expedite the investigation, fearing they may not live to see its conclusion. Emma Jones, a solicitor representing the families, expressed concerns about the lengthy duration of the investigation and the lack of answers or justice. She questioned whether the delays were due to incompetence or a deliberate cover-up.

The investigation has involved reviewing millions of documents, including medical records of 750 patients, and taking statements from over 1,200 witnesses. A 2018 report found a "disregard for human life" and an "institutionalised regime" of prescribing dangerous amounts of medication at the hospital.

Dr. Jane Barton, who oversaw the prescribing practices, was the only individual to face disciplinary action. She was found guilty of failings in her care of 12 patients but was not struck off and chose to retire.

Deputy Chief Constable Neil Jerome acknowledged the complexity of the investigation and stated that the decision to bring criminal charges rests with the Crown Prosecution Service. Currently, 29 suspects have been identified, including 24 for alleged gross negligence manslaughter and five for alleged offenses under the Health and Safety at Work Act. Interviews are ongoing, and no arrests have been made to date.