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mRNA Covid-19 Booster
17 March 2023
Lead MP
Andrew Bridgen
Debate Type
Adjournment Debate
Tags
NHS
Other Contributors: 1
At a Glance
Andrew Bridgen raised concerns about mrna covid-19 booster in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Opened the debate
Andrew Bridgen highlighted the scale of harms caused by experimental covid-19 vaccines, citing data from Florida and US Government's National Library of Medicine. He presented statistics showing serious adverse events rates for Pfizer and Moderna mRNA vaccines and questioned why more is not being done to investigate vaccine harms globally. The MP also criticised media silence on vaccine harms and the Government’s decision to stop publicly reporting yellow card updates. Bridgen further discussed the cost implications of the booster programme, arguing that it was not effective or safe based on government data and industry trial data.
David Davis
Con
Haltemprice and Howden
Davis acknowledged Andrew Bridgen’s work in raising awareness about vaccine harms and expressed hope for more light to be shed on the issue.
Government Response
Quince responded that vaccines have saved tens of thousands of lives, reduced pressure on NHS and allowed reopening of economy. He stated all vaccines used in UK covid-19 vaccination programme underwent rigorous approval processes by MHRA, EMA, and FDA. Data shows mRNA and non-mRNA boosters highly effective in reducing hospitalisations and deaths. ONS published latest effectiveness estimates showing third booster dose was approximately 93% effective at reducing risk of mortality from covid-19 compared to 58% for first dose and 88% for second dose. Quince emphasised continuous monitoring by MHRA and UKHSA of adverse reactions and commitment to further research into vaccines through funding allocation. He highlighted the upcoming targeted seasonal vaccination offer in April aimed at preventing severe disease, hospitalisations and death among high-risk groups.
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Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy
About House of Commons Debates
House of Commons debates take place in the main chamber of the House of Commons. These debates cover a wide range of topics including government policy, legislation, and current affairs. MPs from all parties can participate, question ministers, and hold the government accountable for its decisions.