The admission came during final evidence given to the Scottish Hospitals Inquiry which is investigating whether ventilation and water contamination impacted the safety of patients at Queen Elizabeth University Hospital Campus (QEUH) in Glasgow.

In its closing statement, NHSGGC said it accepts ‘on the balance of probabilities, there is a causal connection between some infections suffered by patients and the hospital environment, in particular the water system'.

QEUH opened in 2015 but NHSGGC has since said it opened too early and faced design flaws.

A number of patient deaths and infections at the hospital have led to concerns about the hospital's water and ventilation systems.

First Minister John Swinney has denied allegations there was any political pressure from Nicola Sturgeon or the SNP Government to open the hospital on time.

Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar has called for senior hospital officials and politicians to be investigated, including Nicola Sturgeon and John Swinney.

 An NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde spokesperson said: ‘We must respect the integrity of the ongoing Inquiry and legal processes which need to be allowed to reach their conclusions before we can provide further comment.

‘We would in the meantime like to reiterate our sincere and unreserved apology to the patients and families affected.

‘We want to reassure patients, families and staff that the QEUH and RHC are safe today. Ensuring the safe care of our patients is our key priority at all times.

‘Comprehensive steps have been taken to address past physical defects in the building, and a significant and ongoing programme of maintenance and monitoring is in place. Our staff are committed to providing safe, high-quality care. 

‘In our closing statements we have acknowledged issues with past culture and communication and we are committed to learning and continuing to improve our approach. 

‘We have outlined the significant improvements undertaken as an organisation during this time to improve governance and oversight, and that issues are being addressed both proactively and reactively, and in a timely manner.

‘We encourage any employee to get in touch directly to discuss concerns they may have to allow us to address directly.'