THE Bishop of Portsmouth has joined the calls for justice for the families of those whose lives were shortened at Gosport War Memorial Hospital.

The Rt Rev Christopher Foster was in Portsmouth Cathedral as the Gosport Independent Panel report was shared privately with families on Wednesday morning (June 20). He was there at the invitation of the panel’s chairman, Bishop James Jones, to be available to support the families.

They heard how at least 456 patients died in the hospital between 1989 and 2000 because they were given strong painkillers without medical justification. The report also revealed the failures of various authorities to prevent or effectively investigate this institutionalised practice.

Bishop Christopher said: “We were pleased to offer our cathedral to be used as a neutral, safe space for the families of those who died in Gosport War Memorial Hospital to hear in private the details contained in the report of the Gosport Independent Panel.

“However, I found it heart-breaking to hear the overwhelming evidence in the Report for the disregard for human life, the culture of deliberately shortening lives, and the way in which those who voiced concerns were dismissed as troublemakers. I share the anger and distress of the families that it has taken so long for the truth to be told, and echo Bishop James’s praise for their fortitude in campaigning in the face of overwhelming opposition for many years.

“I would like to ask the government and relevant authorities how they will guarantee that these families get the support they deserve, and how and when they will act to ensure that justice is done.”