The British government has apologized for the suffering of patients at a U.K. hospital whose "truly dreadful" mistreatment and neglect were highlighted in a damning report.

A public inquiry led by Robert Francis was ordered after it emerged that between 400 and 1,200 people more people had died than would have been expected at Stafford Hospital from 2005 to 2009.

The report found "appalling" standards of care at the central England hospital.

Prime Minister David Cameron Wednesday ordered the creation of the post of Chief Inspector of Hospitals to institute inspections following the publication of Francis's highly critical report.

Cameron also announced the launch of an investigation into standards of care at hospitals with the highest mortality rates, saying the government was "truly sorry" for those who had suffered.