Commons Sense

House of Commons · Adjournment Debate

Covid-19 Vaccines: Nepal

06 July 2021 · 2 other contributors

Opened by Virendra Sharma Lab Ealing, Southall

NHS

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Virendra Sharma raised concerns about covid-19 vaccines: nepal in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

Key points

  • Sharma highlighted Nepal's severe health crisis with over 600,000 infections and 9,000 deaths, less than 3% of Nepalis fully vaccinated.
  • Sharma requested the UK to donate surplus AstraZeneca vaccines, commit to sending part of the 5 million promised doses, and accelerate vaccine donations through COVAX.
  • Adams acknowledged Nepal's situation and noted the UK's donation of over 40 million, including ventilators and PPE, and highlighted 348,000 doses already delivered to Nepal through COVAX.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Virendra Sharma Lab Ealing, Southall

Sharma highlighted Nepal’s severe health crisis due to the surge in infections from the delta variant. He emphasised that more than 600,000 people have been infected with over 9,000 deaths and less than 3% of Nepalis are fully vaccinated. He also noted a significant shortage of oxygen across the country leading to avoidable fatalities. Sharma asked for three specific actions: donating surplus AstraZeneca vaccines (1.4 million doses), committing to send some of the UK’s promised 5 million doses, and accelerating vaccine donations through COVAX.

Other contributors (2)
  • David T. C. Davies Con Monmouth

    Asked for a quick adjournment.

  • Seema Malhotra Lab Feltham and Heston

    Supported Sharma's call to action, emphasising the urgent need for vaccines and medical supplies in Nepal.

Government Response

Nigel Adams

Adams acknowledged the severity of Nepal’s situation and highlighted that the UK has a long-standing relationship with Nepal. He noted that the UK has donated over £40 million to help Nepal combat the pandemic, including ventilators, PPE, and medical equipment. The Minister also emphasised ongoing efforts through COVAX to deliver vaccines globally, with 348,000 doses already delivered to Nepal. Adams stated that more than 100 million shared doses will go through COVAX and that the UK has committed to sharing at least 100 million vaccine doses by June 2022. He also mentioned efforts to combat misinformation around vaccines and support for financial measures via institutions like the World Bank.

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