Professor van Velzen breaks his silence in an exclusive interview with the BBC, blaming the hospital's management for failing to explain to parents what would happen to their children's bodies.
BBC NewsOnline reports on the reaction of those most closely involved in the inquiry into Alder Hey Children's Hospital. A report has severely criticised the way in which children's organs were removed and retained at the hospital.
Alder Hey doctor's defence
Professor van Velzen breaks his silence in an exclusive interview with the BBC, blaming the hospital's management for failing to explain to parents what would happen to their children's bodies.
Click here to listen to the interview with Professor van Velzen
Health secretary criticises "unforgivable" events
Making a public apology to parents and families of the dead children, Health Secretary Alan Milburn pledged: "Those who did wrong will now be held to account."
Click here to watch the statement in full
Health chief condemns "shocking" practice
The current law on the removal of organs is "unclear, ambiguous and ageing", says the government's Chief Medial Officer, Professor Liam Donaldson. He said the extent of the practice of organ remove would shock the public.
The Redfern report outlines "uunacceptable" practices
The official inquiry into the scandal, led by Michael Redfern QC, reveals that thousands of organs - including heads - were removed from children who had died at the Merseyside hospital.
Click here to watch Michael Redfern's news conference
"Devastated families"
Ed Bradley, chairman of the families' support group, whose daughter's heart, lungs and brain were kept at Alder Hey, says: "The last 17 months has been harrowing and have had a devastating effect on all the families involved."
Click here to watch an a news conference by the families
Police to probe Alder Hey
Tony Bell, the Chief Executive of the Alder Hey hospital trust, says they "deeply regretted the serious mistakes" highlighted in the report.
Click here to watch an interview with Tony Bell
UK Opposition to support legislative changes
The Shadow Secretary for Health, Dr Liam Fox, says the Conservatives fully agree with the need to reform the Human Tissue Act.
Click here to watch Dr Fox's statement to the Commons
Liberal Democrats say action should have been quicker
The Liberal Democrat Health Spokesman, Nick Harvey, told the Commons that some of his constituents had been the victims of similar practices at Bristol.
Click here to watch Mr Harvey's statement to the Commons