Call for 'anthrax death' inquiry

A call has been made for an inquiry into Mr Norris' death

A call has been made for a full inquiry into the handling of a suspected anthrax death in the Borders.

Christopher "Pascal" Norris, from near Hawick, died in July from blood poisoning which tests showed was most likely caused by the infection.

SNP MSP Christine Grahame has asked whether sending samples to a lab in England caused a diagnosis delay.

She said the only way to ensure public confidence would be to take a closer look at readiness for a major outbreak.

"The very tragic case highlighted by Mr Norris' death raises a number of very serious questions about the government's preparedness in the event of a major anthrax or other biological outbreak," she said.

Test facilities

Ms Grahame said she was keen to know whether test facilities for anthrax exist in Scotland.

She said: "That may or may not be a factor in the length of time taken to confirm the type of incident officials were dealing with at local level."

The MSP has asked for information on advice offered to people working with animal hides.

She also called for an independent inquiry into all aspects of Mr Norris' death.

A total of 74 people have now received precautionary antibiotics as a result of the incident.