World IN BRIEF : BRITAIN : Some AIDS Victims to Be Compensated

The new government of Prime Minister John Major agreed to give compensation to hemophiliacs infected with the AIDS virus through blood transfusions given by the National Health Service. It was a reversal of the policies of Margaret Thatcher. The decision brings Britain into line with compensation plans adopted overseas. Under Thatcher, the government had contended there was no negligence and, therefore, no legal responsibility for the accidental infections. The initiative was seen as an example of the “caring Conservatism” that Major, a former minister for the disabled, had promised during his leadership campaign last month.