Tributes to Scots professor who uncovered mesh implant scandal

Tributes have been paid to the Scottish professor who uncovered the mesh implant scandal after her death.

Alison Britton, professor of healthcare and medical law at Glasgow Caledonian University, passed away last week.

The legal expert, in a review commissioned by the Scottish Government, spent years reviewing the cases of 18 women who underwent transvaginal mesh implants.

Her evidence found some women were not given accurate information before undergoing the life-altering procedure, with some left with painful side effects.

In October 2023, women’s health minister Jenni Minto MSP praised the professor for her “meticulous work” reviewing the case records over the period of two years.

All parties at Holyrood unanimously called for the full acceptance and implementation of all 21 recommendations made by her in the report.

The 63-year-old also carried out consultancy work for organisations such as the World Health Organisation, the British Medical Association, the General Medical Council and the Scottish Government.

Professor Stephen Decent, principal and vice-chancellor of Glasgow Caledonian University, said: “Everyone at Glasgow Caledonian is deeply shocked and saddened by Alison’s passing.

“A much loved and distinguished colleague, Alison was a wonderful ambassador for the University, whose work had a profound, lasting impact on patient care and medical standards.

“We offer our sincere condolences to her family, friends, colleagues and students.”

A tribute from the University read: “Alison was also a significant contributor to Glasgow School for Business and Society and the University, playing leadership roles throughout her career that produced positive impact to the working lives of colleagues and to the learning experience of students.

“She was a mentor and friend to many and a passionate leader and advocate of the Aurora development programme for women in Higher Education.

“Alison’s impact was significant and far-reaching and she will be sorely missed.”

Dr Andrew Tickell, senior lecturer in Law at GCU posted on X: “I’m so sorry to be sharing this – but this week my much-loved friend and colleague Professor Alison Britton passed away.

“Words fail me. We’re all just so profoundly sad.”

Scottish Conservative MSP Jackson Carlaw said on X: “On Thursday I was stunned by the untimely death of mesh champion Prof Alison Britton.

“Thousands of women owe their future to her two landmark reports and their multiple recommendations.

“Her death is a tragedy. Her legacy must see their full implementation by both governments.”

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