← Back to House of Commons Debates
Data Transparency and Accountability: Covid-19
18 March 2021
Lead MP
William Wragg
Debate Type
Ministerial Statement
Tags
Standards & Ethics
Other Contributors: 10
At a Glance
William Wragg raised concerns about data transparency and accountability: covid-19 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:
Government Statement
William Wragg presented the latest report of the Public Administration and Constitutional Affairs Committee on government transparency and accountability during the COVID-19 pandemic. The report acknowledges the Government's efforts in data collection but highlights issues such as inconsistent publication of SAGE minutes, delayed dissemination of critical information to local leaders, and a lack of clear decision-making frameworks. The Minister emphasised the importance of transparent data sharing for public trust and effective governance, noting that delays and inconsistencies have undermined public confidence. He also criticised the use of reasonable worst-case scenarios in communications, which may have induced fear rather than fostering compliance. The report recommends strengthening the ministerial code to require adherence to the UK Statistics Authority's code of practice and emphasises the need for clear accountability within government departments.
Karin Smyth
Lab
Bristol South
Question
The hon. Member referred to evidence about data sharing locally and the Government’s decision to set up new organisations. The British Medical Association stated that 'Our devastating mortality figures could in part be a result of the failure of the Government to... share data'. With infection rates still variable across the country, how does the hon. Member think we can ensure that the Government learn from these lessons and include local experts as we come out of lockdown?
Minister reply
The Minister acknowledged the importance of involving existing local expertise and infrastructure fully in future pandemic responses, noting that mistrust within Whitehall may have hindered collaboration with local health authorities.
Question
Congratulates the Committee's report on its emphasis on data availability to the public. Suggests that honesty about uncertainty is key to maintaining trust.
Minister reply
Agrees with the need for clarity, openness and honesty about uncertainties in enhancing public trust.
Rachel Hopkins
Lab
Luton South
Question
Highlights frustration among businesses due to lack of information on decisions affecting them. Asks if timely publication of data used for decision-making can help rebuild trust with businesses.
Minister reply
Agrees that publishing evidence showing why venues are not covid-secure, despite efforts made by some businesses, is necessary.
Gagan Mohindra
Con
South West Hertfordshire
Question
Welcomes the report and calls for evidence-based decision-making. Asks if data and rationale should be provided to pubs in South West Herts that have invested heavily in making themselves covid-secure.
Minister reply
Agrees that data justifying why venues cannot reopen on 12 April should be published.
Question
Commends the Committee for their thorough report and asks if arrangements for enforcing ministerial code are fit for purpose.
Minister reply
Acknowledges the need to integrate UK Statistics Authority code of practice with ministerial code for accurate data presentation.
Question
Thanks the Chair for their statement and acknowledges that more work is needed in improving data presentation.
Minister reply
Agrees that strengthening the ministerial code to integrate UK Statistics Authority guidelines will help improve confidence in data-based decisions.
Jeff Smith
Lab
Manchester Withington
Question
Thanks for acknowledging difficulties faced by hospitality sector due to lack of data. Asks if events research programme should publish data and evidence.
Minister reply
Agrees that all evidence and data from the summer study on nightclubs and festivals reopening should be published.
Fleur Anderson
Lab
Putney
Question
Asks why Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster did not appear before Committee. Inquires about Government's hesitancy to share data with local authorities.
Minister reply
Hopes that publication of this report serves as a reminder for Ministers to accept invitations to appear in front of Committees and discusses measures taken by the Government.
Bury South
Question
Welcomes the Committee's report on tiering decisions. Asks about the view on the consultation process and recommendations for improvement.
Minister reply
Suggests that publication of data thresholds is vital so areas can judge why tiering decisions are necessary.
Shadow Comment
Karin Smyth
Shadow Comment
Karin Smyth questioned the Government’s data sharing practices during the pandemic, citing evidence that the failure to share data adequately could have contributed to high mortality rates. She emphasised the need for better inclusion and trust in local expertise as Britain emerges from lockdown.
▸
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.