-
Question
Mr Morris asked about the impact of the NHS’s no jab, no job policy on staff numbers in hospitals such as Barnsley Hospital. He pointed out that many staff have left and are seeking employment elsewhere.
Minister reply
The Secretary of State responded by stating that only a small number of individuals had been required to leave their positions due to the vaccination mandate. He emphasised that the vast majority of NHS workers were vaccinated, and those who needed more time were accommodated.
-
Question
Ms Smyth inquired about how the Department was supporting local authorities dealing with vaccine hesitancy among certain communities. She noted the significant increase in cases and hospitalisations, especially among those who are unvaccinated.
Minister reply
The Secretary of State confirmed that the Department had been working closely with local authorities to address vaccine hesitancy through targeted public health campaigns and community outreach programmes.
-
Question
Mr Wragg asked about plans to offer a second booster dose to those aged 70 or over. He highlighted the effectiveness of boosters in reducing hospitalisation risks.
Minister reply
The Secretary of State stated that the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation was still assessing whether additional booster doses were necessary for vulnerable groups, including elderly individuals.
-
Question
Mr McCabe questioned why some regions were experiencing lower vaccination rates compared to others. He provided data showing disparities in second dose uptake.
Minister reply
The Secretary of State acknowledged regional variations and said that the Department was working with local health bodies to improve outreach and address specific barriers to vaccination.
-
Question
Mr Edwards asked whether there were plans for a wider rollout of HEPA filters in public buildings to reduce virus transmission. He cited evidence supporting their effectiveness.
Minister reply
The Secretary of State responded that while the Department was considering various measures, including air filtration systems, the primary focus remained on encouraging vaccination and adherence to existing guidelines.
-
Question
Ashworth raised concerns about rising COVID-19 rates, questioned further restrictions, better sick pay, wider isolation support, public building ventilation systems, and vaccination rates. He also pointed out the need for a comprehensive plan to mitigate pressures on NHS staff during winter.
Minister reply
Javid welcomed the focus on sick pay from day one, guidance on ventilation, mask-wearing, and continuing efforts to increase vaccination coverage. He acknowledged the importance of communication and accessibility in vaccine uptake and highlighted ongoing support for flu vaccines and £5.4 billion additional funding for NHS and social care.
-
Question
Hunt welcomed the statement but expressed concerns about falling behind other countries in adult double-dose vaccination rates, urging faster regulatory decisions on under-40s booster eligibility and lower age group vaccinations.
Minister reply
Javid acknowledged the need for timely decision-making by the JCVI and highlighted the success of the UK’s booster programme with over 12 million vaccines already delivered. He assured Hunt that further extensions to the booster programme would be considered based on timely advice from the JCVI.
-
Question
Acknowledging the efficacy of vaccines against the delta variant, the MP asks about measures to increase vaccination uptake among the unvaccinated both domestically and globally. He also raises concerns that mandatory vaccinations may lead to increased distrust.
Minister reply
The Minister highlights the UK-wide approach in the national vaccination programme and mentions efforts such as easy access points, communication campaigns, and the consultation process on mandating NHS staff vaccinations.
-
Question
Asking about updating the NHS certification app to record third doses for international travel purposes and booking them through the NHS website instead of GPs.
Minister reply
The Minister explains that while domestic use does not require recording, he acknowledges the importance for international travel. He states that they are considering how best to provide such information and will update soon.
-
Question
Concerned about insufficient funding for partners running the booster programme in Salford, the MP asks for a review of the funding.
Minister reply
The Minister listens to the concerns raised and reassures that they work closely with GPs, local authorities, and others to ensure costs are covered, and they keep this under constant review.
-
Question
Enquiring about the form an international pandemic treaty will take and its timeframe, covering issues like PPE availability and vaccine diplomacy.
Minister reply
The Minister supports an international treaty but notes that not all countries agree on it. He emphasises the need for better international cooperation while acknowledging that some are against such a move.
-
Question
Concerned about system bugs preventing recording of third primary jabs and meeting with patient groups, the MP asks for updates on these issues.
Minister reply
The Minister clarifies that vaccinations are recorded in the NHS system. He refers to his earlier answer regarding the app's functionality.
-
Question
Citing an impact assessment on mandatory vaccination for NHS staff, the MP highlights potential workforce capacity risks and asks about support for social care.
Minister reply
The Minister acknowledges the point regarding pressures on social care. He mentions record funding going into both adult social care and the discharge fund supporting early hospital discharges.
-
Question
Asking for a meeting to discuss the 'disease of disparity' exposed by the pandemic, particularly in healthcare disparities affecting people with sickle cell.
Minister reply
The Minister agrees to meet and discusses the importance of addressing healthcare disparities highlighted in research.
-
Question
Concerned about public confidence in vaccine safety, the MP asks for a discussion on how to expedite compensation for those damaged by vaccines.
Minister reply
The Minister acknowledges the importance of discussing the issue further. He reiterates that vaccines are safe and effective as per the MHRA.
-
Question
Given the importance of the booster programme and the Prime Minister’s comments, why did the app not foresee problems in adding boosters? Also, what will be done to address under-16-year-olds' inability to access their vaccine records?
Minister reply
The right hon. Gentleman is exaggerating a problem that does not exist. There is no issue with the app regarding booster vaccinations for domestic purposes; however, we understand its importance for international travel and are working on it. He should not undermine confidence in the app.
-
Question
If an NHS staff member has previously had myocarditis, would that be sufficient ground for exemption from vaccination?
Minister reply
That decision should be made by clinicians.
-
Question
What practical steps will the Secretary of State take to ensure there are enough staff in social care for the winter season?
Minister reply
The Department is providing record funding for recruitment campaigns, which have already shown positive results.
-
Question
Will the Secretary of State assist in establishing a walk-in centre or pop-up facility in Winchester to make booster vaccinations more accessible?
Minister reply
We are working on making access through various centres, including pharmacies and pop-ups. The Department would be happy to discuss further steps with my hon. Friend.
-
Question
What measures is the Secretary of State taking to ensure we have an ambulance service that can cope during a potential spike in COVID-19 or due to severe weather?
Minister reply
The Department discusses this regularly with NHS and trusts, providing funding support and other measures to help manage pressure.
-
Question
Will the Secretary of State review the current regime of asymptomatic testing in schools to ensure it does not last longer than necessary?
Minister reply
The issue is under regular review and we will remove it as soon as possible.
-
Question
Is the Secretary of State aware that national Test and Trace team expect local public health department to pick up slack during Christmas holidays?
Minister reply
The hon. Lady rightly highlights the work NHS does on testing and tracing, as well as vaccination programme.
-
Question
How can my constituents who are struggling to get their booster jab be supported?
Minister reply
GPs across the country are doing phenomenal work, and we will do everything possible to ensure all constituents receive their boosters.
-
Question
Is it time for a brain injury strategy across government to address long-term neurological changes associated with long COVID?
Minister reply
Work is ongoing in the NHS, Department and research institutes on long covid, supported by millions of pounds. The NHS works with people suffering from long covid.
-
Question
Will my right hon. Friend encourage schools to continue in-school vaccination clinics and reassure parents about the safety and efficacy of vaccines?
Minister reply
The decision is made independently by world-leading clinicians, ensuring vaccine safety and efficacy.
-
Question
How many mobile units are currently deployed for vaccination delivery?
Minister reply
Mobile units remain an important part of making access as easy as possible; however, the exact number changes day to day and location.
-
Question
Will my right hon. Friend encourage everybody in Stoke-on-Trent South who has yet to have their vaccination or needs their booster, to come forward on Friday?
Minister reply
The Department joins the hon. Gentleman in encouraging people to get vaccinated at the new walk-in centre.
-
Question
What reassurance can be given to constituents about sufficient vaccine supplies for booster roll-outs, following a reported shortage issue?
Minister reply
The vaccines taskforce and the country have more than enough supply of vaccines whether for boosters or general vaccination.
-
Question
Does the Secretary of State agree that getting booster jabs as soon as possible is in everyone’s interest, given the 90% protection it offers?
Minister reply
The hon. Friend is correct; the figures show a significant increase in protection with boosters.
-
Question
Why will the Secretary of State not meet directors of public health to discuss additional investment in public health measures beyond vaccines?
Minister reply
The hon. Lady is right that vaccines are central but not the only focus; mention was made of antivirals among other measures.
-
Question
Will my right hon. Friend thank 16 and 17-year-olds in Aylesbury for their contribution to tackling the pandemic, and can he let them know when they can expect their second jabs?
Minister reply
The second doses will be available from Monday next week; also thanking local schools for their work.
-
Question
Can the Secretary of State outline what discussions have taken place to ensure that vulnerable groups, including diabetics, can access booster jabs in a timely manner?
Minister reply
The supply is for the whole United Kingdom and each devolved Administration has a slightly different approach but they co-ordinate closely to ensure supplies are available.