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Covid-19 Vaccines: Nepal
06 July 2021
Lead MP
Virendra Sharma
Debate Type
Adjournment Debate
Tags
Children & Families
Other Contributors: 2
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.
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
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.
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
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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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.