The chairman of Scotland's police oversight body has resigned abruptly following explosive allegations that she offered what have been described as 'bribes' to bereaved families during her previous tenure as Scotland's Chief Nursing Officer.
Immediate Resignation Amid Mounting Pressure
Fiona McQueen stepped down from her role at the Scottish Police Authority (SPA) with immediate effect, citing 'personal and family reasons.' This decision comes just over a month after a newspaper investigation first brought the controversial claims to public attention, casting a shadow over her leadership.
Allegations of Financial Offers to Grieving Parents
The central allegation involves the tragic case of Sophia Smith, who died at merely twelve days old after contracting a rare bloodstream infection that escalated into sepsis at the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital in Glasgow. According to the child's parents, Matthew and Theresa Smith, during a telephone conversation discussing their daughter's death, Ms. McQueen allegedly proposed a financial settlement of £20,000. This offer was purportedly made to circumvent potential litigation and was suggested as a means for the family to take their other children on holiday.
In a statement that has drawn widespread condemnation, the couple further claims Ms. McQueen remarked that they could 'give them an ice cream to cheer them up' regarding their profound loss, a comment perceived as deeply insensitive.
'Trip to Disneyland' Remark Sparks Outrage
Compounding the controversy, Dr. Christine Peters, a consultant microbiologist at the same hospital, asserted that Ms. McQueen had questioned why a 'trip to Disneyland' had not been extended to other families grieving losses linked to the hospital's infection scandal. This remark has been labelled as 'crass,' 'insulting,' and 'sickening' by political figures and the public alike.
Scottish Tory health spokesman, Dr. Sandesh Gulhane, stated unequivocally: 'This is the right decision. Suggesting that grieving families could be bought off with a trip to Disneyland isn't just crass and insulting, it is sickening.'
Firm Denial from Former Chair
Through a spokesperson, Ms. McQueen, who retired as Chief Nursing Officer in 2021 and had served as SPA chairman for just over a year, has vigorously denied all allegations. She 'strongly refutes any suggestions that she offered the Smiths money or a holiday,' maintaining her actions were misinterpreted.
Upon her resignation, Ms. McQueen expressed, 'It has been a privilege to serve on the SPA,' though she did not directly address the specific claims in her departure statement.
Broader Context of Hospital Scandals
The allegations are set against the backdrop of ongoing scandals at the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, which has faced intense scrutiny over infection control failures and patient safety issues. This resignation raises further questions about accountability and sensitivity in handling cases involving profound personal tragedy within the healthcare and oversight systems.
