Coronavirus

Ashworth questioned the clarity of travel advice to northern Italy and sought clarification on why Heathrow was chosen over other major airports for supported isolation facilities. He also inquired about support provided to British tourists quarantined in Tenerife, and raised concerns about school closures and potential NHS pressure due to increased testing.

Hancock clarified travel advice for northern Italy and reassured that plans were in place should the virus become a pandemic. He explained the choice of Heathrow for supported isolation facilities, confirmed ongoing work on home testing kits, and mentioned additional funding from the Treasury to support capital needs.

Clark inquired about the roll-out of diagnostic testing facilities across UK laboratories and potential plans for wider coverage if necessary.

Expressed concerns about under-reporting of coronavirus cases internationally, suggested thermal detection technology at Heathrow and other sites, questioned the logic behind differing self-isolation rules for China and Italy, and called for clear guidance on sickness cover for those advised to self-isolate.

Asked if efforts are being redoubled to vaccinate the elderly and vulnerable against seasonal flu to mitigate pressures on the NHS in case coronavirus becomes a larger issue.

Inquired about four people who developed symptoms after coming to the UK despite extensive testing before their arrival, questioning whether this indicates infectiousness prior to symptom onset.

Asked for advice regarding constituents planning holidays to countries affected by coronavirus and expressed concerns about the inability to reclaim travel insurance money due to not being barred from travel.

Inquired about the assessment of potential economic consequences of the spread of the virus, both globally and in the UK, particularly noting actions taken by other countries with lockdowns and economic stimulus measures.

Complimented the Secretary of State's handling of the situation, asked about individual and employer responsibilities to help with containment, including business travel alternatives.

Commended NHS staff for their anticipated work in containing and dealing with the virus, acknowledged the vaccine development efforts at the Jenner Institute, questioned if 111 staff are properly trained and staffed.

Praised the Secretary of State's measured statement, asked whether experts are considering that coronavirus may be akin to a difficult but recoverable flu virus despite its peculiarities.

Expressed concerns about the current process of contact tracing, questioning the Secretary of State on whether he would develop a tracking app to help people track their contacts in case they have been exposed.

Asked the Secretary of State for confirmation that further information will be provided as the situation evolves and requested assurance that everything possible is being done to keep constituents at ease.

Inquired about steps taken by the Government in partnership with tech companies to combat fake news related to coronavirus.

Complimented the Secretary of State and requested further clarification on what self-isolation means for certain groups such as families or university students.

Asked about communication between the Department and devolved Administrations concerning precautions, particularly in relation to schools and financial support for Northern Ireland if needed.

Inquired about what someone should do when feeling unwell upon arrival at an airport after a journey abroad.

Asked for advice to other family members who are asymptomatic in case of self-isolation of one family member.

Suggested reviewing isolation facilities at London Gatwick airport as a precautionary measure against the spread of coronavirus.

Asked about discussions with colleagues in DDCMS and sports authorities regarding decisions on sporting events, specifically Six Nations championship matches involving Italy.

Requested the Secretary of State to contact her and a school in her constituency that has closed as a precautionary measure after students returned from northern Italy for reassurance.

Asked about measures being taken to support British nationals currently quarantined in the hotel in Tenerife and their families, who are worried.

Praised the response of Milton Keynes to hosting a quarantine centre and requested reassurance that the UK is well-prepared for handling the outbreak compared to other countries.

He highlighted the difficulties faced by UK wedding dress companies due to factory closures in China, emphasising the time sensitivity of the issue and its potential financial impact on businesses and families.

In response to Chris Bryant's concerns about wedding dresses made in China, he acknowledged the broader supply chain issues caused by the virus in China. He is working with the Treasury on an appropriate response and noted that containing the virus will have economic benefits.

She asked for clarity regarding advice given to those hosting or attending events around the world, and sought confirmation that 111 call handlers were not advising people to go to their GP contrary to internet rumours.

He reassured Tracey Crouch by stating that people should call 111 if they are concerned about the virus. He emphasised that 111 call handlers are highly trained and GPs are available on the other end of the line to provide appropriate advice.

He commended the work done by the Secretary of State's Department, officials, and public health professionals in his constituency. He highlighted an issue with inadequate communication regarding contact tracing measures to residents.

Acknowledging Peter Kyle’s point about communication challenges, he emphasised that they are constantly learning from both successes and failures in their approach to disseminating information effectively.

She asked for more detail on the public information campaign referenced by the Secretary of State, seeking confirmation of updates as the situation evolves.

He confirmed that they are strengthening their existing public information campaign to encourage hand washing and self-care measures. He underlined the importance of disseminating this information across the entire population.

Welcoming the Secretary of State’s approach, he inquired about advice given to schools facing outbreaks and sought clear guidance on an upcoming rugby match between Italy and Ireland from the IRFU.

He committed to ensuring that clinical advice is provided by connecting with the Republic of Ireland chief medical officer for joint decision-making regarding the rugby match.

He asked about the guidance for children when parents self-isolate while awaiting test results, expressing concern over potential alarm caused in schools by such situations.

He advised following clinical advice that underlines the generally less severe impact of coronavirus on children compared to flu. He emphasised the importance of listening to scientists and health experts.

He thanked the Secretary of State for his statement and asked about support given to airport staff who are often at the forefront in dealing with travel-related issues due to the virus.

Expressing gratitude towards Border Force and port staff, he stated that they remain engaged with these groups through relevant departments to ensure adequate information and support is provided.

He praised the Government's public information efforts but suggested that Members of Parliament should also disseminate necessary information via social media and other platforms to reach wider audiences.

In response, he welcomed ideas on improving their response including utilising MPs' outreach through tweets and posters for maximised public reach.

Congratulating the Secretary of State’s clear leadership, he inquired about advice regarding school trips planned ahead. He sought clarity on whether these should proceed based on current travel advisories.

He advised schools to follow Foreign Office travel advice, which is updated regularly and informed by scientific evidence, including the impact of the virus globally.