The final inquest is expected to be held in October 2024 at Birmingham Coroner’s Court and last for nearly a year.

Thompsons Solicitors has secured compensation for 650 women in legal claims, more than any other law firm, after being appointed lead litigator in 2017.

Commenting about the hearing, Linda Millband - head of group action claims at Thompsons Solicitors - said: “The Paterson scandal is far from over. We’ve been representing hundreds of women who allege they were grossly mistreated at his hands for years, and this is just another milestone in an appallingly tragic tale.

“It is essential that the Paterson Inquest thoroughly investigates the underlying systemic challenges to effectively tackle the concerning notion of surgeons operating with impunity in both the private and public healthcare sectors."