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Covid-19
12 January 2021
Lead MP
Edward Argar
Debate Type
General Debate
Tags
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Other Contributors: 61
At a Glance
Edward Argar raised concerns about 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:
Lead Contributor
Opened the debate
Throughout the debate, Edward Argar emphasised the importance of unity among Members of Parliament in combating covid-19. He highlighted the significant progress made with vaccine distribution and acknowledged the challenges faced due to postal disruptions. He also reassured that continuous efforts are being made to ensure everyone receives their vaccination.
Charles Walker
Con
Broxbourne
Walker expressed concern over postal delays affecting vaccine notifications and urged for alternative methods of communication to ensure constituents do not miss their appointments.
Catherine West
Lab
Hornsey and Friern Barnet
West suggested employing additional staff at Royal Mail to address the issue of mail delivery delays caused by illness, stressing the importance of timely vaccine notifications for public health.
Stewart highlighted instances in his constituency where residents have not received post for over a week, raising concerns about individuals missing their vaccination appointments due to postal service issues.
Andrew Griffith
Con
Arundel and South Downs
Griffith questioned whether there was any hope for the nation's undergraduates returning to college who would be further away from receiving a vaccine, indicating significant disruption in their education.
Liz Kendall
Lab
Leicester West
The NHS is under extreme pressure with over 32,000 patients in hospitals. Social care faces similar issues with increased outbreaks and staff shortages. The Government must act on vaccine distribution and support for social care workers to prevent further strain on the system.
Peter Bottomley
Con
Billerica
Mr Bottomley thanked the hon. Member for Leicester West and expressed satisfaction with the vaccination programme's efficiency, citing a constituent’s positive feedback on their experience at a health centre. He highlighted issues such as dental staff not initially being allowed to get vaccinated due to employment status and called for an urgent review of the JCVI guidelines to prioritise younger critical workers over older individuals in non-essential roles.
Nigel Evans
Con
Fylde
Mr Evans briefly intervened to inform Mr Bottomley that his time was up and moved on to the next speaker, Dr Philippa Whitford of the Scottish National party.
Central Ayrshire
Dr Whitford praised NHS and key workers for their role during the crisis and criticised aspects of the UK Government's response to the pandemic, including being too slow in lockdowns and outsourcing testing. She advocated for tight border control to prevent importing dangerous variants, driving down infection rates domestically through strict measures, and maintaining the current lockdown long enough to suppress the outbreak fully. Dr Whitford also stressed the importance of public health messaging that treats people as adults and provides clear information without over-promising.
Liam Fox
Con
Wealden
Fox criticised sensationalist reporting on excess deaths during the covid-19 pandemic, advocating for a cross-party commission to improve data measurement. He highlighted the UK's success in vaccine roll-out, noting that the UK vaccinated more people per million population than many European countries, and emphasised the importance of unity within the United Kingdom for better public health responses.
Richard Burgon
Lab
Leeds East
Burgon criticised the Government's failure to control the virus, arguing that the current lockdown is inadequate due to high mobility levels. He highlighted the need for a proper lockdown with financial support for businesses and people in crisis, including full furlough for workers who cannot work from home, urgent help for self-employed individuals, and sick pay at real living wage levels.
Steve Brine
Con
Winchester
Brine welcomed the vaccine delivery plan but expressed frustration over supply issues affecting public confidence. He called for a clear strategy to lift restrictions as the vaccination programme progresses, emphasising that once high-risk groups are vaccinated, there should be a pathway towards easing lockdown measures.
Paul Bristow
Con
Peterborough
Bristow advocated for support for private hire and taxi drivers who have been hard hit by the third lockdown. He argued that the current lockdown can only be justified as a pause to allow vaccine roll-out, after which discussions should begin on life post-vaccination, including the possibility of treating covid-19 like flu.
Mick Whitley
Lab
Merthyr Tydfil and Rhymney
Mr Whitley highlighted the severe impact of COVID-19, noting a significant increase in hospital admissions compared to the first wave. He acknowledged key workers' efforts but criticised the government's handling of financial support during the pandemic. Mr Whitley also called for maintaining social distancing and supporting vulnerable individuals who struggle with economic hardship.
Heather Wheeler
Con
South Derbyshire
Ms Wheeler discussed the slow vaccine rollout in South Derbyshire but expressed optimism as more centres are being set up. She advocated for increased mental health support due to financial stress and thanked essential workers, emphasising their contributions during the pandemic.
Neale Hanvey
SNP
Dumfries and Galloway
Mr Hanvey called for a more collaborative approach in tackling the pandemic, suggesting that the Secretary of State needs to change his strategy. He urged for equitable financial support distribution and highlighted the necessity of considering long-term impacts on healthcare services and vulnerable populations.
Bridgwater and West Somerset
Mr Liddell-Grainger criticised local government bodies in Somerset for their handling of financial resources during the pandemic. He urged the Government to halt plans for local government reform until the crisis is over, advocating instead for a focus on immediate public health concerns.
Lyn Brown
Lab
Newham Westside
Critiqued the current lockdown pressures on NHS staff and facilities, emphasised the need for local decision-making based on clinical needs. Pointed out the struggles of vulnerable sectors like hospitality and cultural industries due to lack of additional support from the Chancellor.
Jamie Wallis
Con
Bridgend
Acknowledged Bridgend's high infection rate, praised the speed and scale of vaccine roll-out, urged clarity on how the vaccine programme will translate into returning freedoms. Highlighted concerns about unpublished data informing rules and restrictions.
Jessica Morden
Lab
Newport East
Complimented NHS and care staff for their efforts during a critical situation, criticised the UK Government's delayed response compared to the Welsh Government. Emphasised the need for support for those excluded from government schemes and advocated for maintaining social security benefits.
Chris Green
Con
Blackburn
Supported the Government's vaccination plan as a way out of lockdowns, praised local efforts in Bolton, urged consideration on whether to renew the Coronavirus Act 2020. Suggested not renewing it could signal confidence in recovery.
Catherine West
Lab
Hornsey and Friern Barnet
Thanked public health workers, journalists, and broadcasters for their efforts during the pandemic. Criticised the Government's handling of the review of what went wrong in the first wave, suggesting better preparedness could have prevented a third wave. Highlighted the urgent need to address long-covid syndrome and its impact on individuals recovering from COVID-19. Raised concerns about isolation strategies not being adequately addressed for insecure workers and those excluded from support such as the creative sector. Called for prioritisation of nursery nurses, dentists, optometrists, teachers, prisoners, prison officers and educators in vaccine rollouts.
North Cotswolds
Complimented the successful start to the UK's vaccine programme, noting that over 2.2 million people have received their first dose. Emphasised the need for a comprehensive plan for schools this year, including clear guidelines on exam grading and alternative assessment methods for students not taking normal exams. Praised Kate Bingham and her taskforce for their work in developing the vaccine programme, highlighting the UK's leadership in RNA technology. Urged the Government to encourage vaccination uptake to enable individuals, schools, hospitals, and businesses to return to normal life.
Jim Shannon
DUP
Strangford
Expressed concerns about communication with teachers regarding lockdown measures and vaccine roll-out. Acknowledged the efforts of GPs and pharmacies in delivering vaccines, as well as postmen and women for their essential work during the pandemic. Called for discussions with private hospitals to secure additional beds and support for the NHS. Highlighted the need to prioritise teachers working in nurseries and special schools for vaccination. Stressed the importance of providing learning tools to vulnerable children immediately. Raised concerns about empty shelves due to the Northern Ireland protocol, adding to fears about access to essential goods.
Alicia Kearns
Con
Rutland and Stamford
Acknowledged the sacrifices made during the pandemic, highlighted support for local residents and businesses. Emphasised the importance of vaccination centres and thanked key workers and volunteers in Rutland and Melton.
Emma Hardy
Lab
Kingston upon Hull West and Haltemprice
Critiqued Government's handling of the pandemic, raised concerns about businesses suffering in her constituency, particularly in the hospitality sector. Called for a clear road map from the government to support industry recovery.
Reported positive progress on vaccine roll-out in his constituency and called for clearer data reporting mechanisms to track vaccination rates across priority groups.
Caroline Lucas
Green
Brighton Pavilion
The Government's handling of the pandemic has been marked by failures, including a slow response, centralised private-sector-led approaches, and inadequate financial support for workers. These issues are exacerbated by ten years of austerity which have weakened public services like the NHS. Caroline Lucas supports an independent public inquiry into the pandemic and highlights the importance of preventing future pandemics through stronger deforestation provisions in the Environment Bill and regulating finance linked to biodiversity destruction.
Edward Leigh
Con
Gainsborough
Edward Leigh believes that conservatism is about freedom and trusting individuals. He supports restricting civil liberties only when necessary for the NHS's capacity, advocating for a tiered approach based on local hospital capacity. As vaccination rolls out, he suggests moving to a more flexible system balancing public health with individual freedoms.
Wendy Chamberlain
Lib Dem
North East Fife
Professor Stephen Reicher’s analysis indicates that the majority of people comply with restrictions. Wendy Chamberlain highlights practical difficulties and lack of information causing non-compliance in some cases. She discusses local businesses struggling due to complex public health messaging, using examples like the Peat Inn restaurant and Tarskavaig B&B, urging for more support from the Government.
Colleen Fletcher
Lab
Coventry North East
Since 2010, the Government's economic and social policies have exacerbated structural inequalities. Health inequalities are widening with people in deprived areas experiencing higher diagnosis rates, death rates, and a significantly shorter life expectancy compared to those in more affluent areas. The pandemic has had a disproportionate impact on BAME communities and small pockets of poverty and deprivation in Coventry. The Government must commit to funding public health, the NHS, local authorities, and others to tackle these inequalities.
John Redwood
Con
Wokingham
Acknowledges the success of the UK's testing regime and vaccination programme compared to other countries. Questions why some countries have lower death rates despite critical handling of the virus, such as Sweden and Brazil. Urges the Government to do more for self-employed individuals and small businesses who are bearing the brunt of economic damage.
Mike Amesbury
Lab
Warrington South
Highlights the deep recession and high death rate caused by Government incompetence, advocating for a social contract between citizens and the state. Urges the Government to provide better support for people and businesses during the pandemic. Asks if the Government has confidence in proceeding with planned elections or will delay democracy.
Imran Ahmad Khan
Con
Morden and Mitcham
Praises the Government's vaccine deployment efforts, welcoming the establishment of large-scale vaccination centres. Urges for ambitious objectives to ensure everyone receives the vaccine as early as possible. Supports proposals from the Adam Smith Institute on how to accelerate the UK’s covid-19 vaccination programme.
Ian Paisley Jnr
DUP
North Antrim
Paisley argues for the increased use of lateral flow tests to inspire confidence and help unlock lockdown measures. He criticises the state of fear induced by the pandemic and calls for the unlocking of grassroots amateur football, highlighting the importance of positive physical activity among young people.
Flick Drummond
Con
Meon Valley
Drummond praises key workers' efforts and highlights progress in vaccine distribution. She advocates for teachers to be prioritised for vaccination to allow schools to reopen fully, addressing concerns about children's education and mental health during the pandemic.
Mitcham and Morden
McDonagh expresses concern over comments from Ministers that blame individuals for not following rules. She argues for more support to those in poverty-stricken areas to self-isolate if contacted by Test and Trace, suggesting financial aid as a means of encouraging isolation.
Wera Hobhouse
Lib Dem
Bath
Hobhouse discusses challenges faced by women during the pandemic, calling for adapted furlough schemes to support pregnant women. She also advocates for prioritising teachers and school staff in vaccine distribution and highlights concerns over financial compensation for university students who are unable to use their accommodation due to lockdown measures.
Ben Everitt
Con
NA
He described the grim situation at Milton Keynes University Hospital and highlighted the challenges ahead due to rising cases. He praised NHS staff for their tireless dedication despite facing conspiracy theorists and anti-vaxxers. The MP emphasised the hope brought by the vaccination programme, noting that over 2.3 million people have received vaccinations.
Ruth Cadbury
Lab
Brentford and Isleworth
She acknowledged the rapid vaccine rollout but criticised the Government for not addressing inequalities exacerbated by the pandemic. She highlighted issues such as inadequate sick pay, lack of uplift in universal credit, exclusion from income schemes, and insufficient support for aviation communities. Cadbury also expressed concerns about the anti-vaxxer campaign's impact on black, Asian and minority ethnic communities.
James Daly
Con
Bury North
He thanked his local team for their efforts in vaccine rollout and emphasised the importance of economic support for businesses. He suggested extending business rates holiday and VAT cut beyond March 2021 to aid hospitality businesses, and asked for further financial support to protect small businesses and jobs.
Bury South
While he backed the lockdown due to the new variant's spread, he emphasised the need for a route out of lockdown with vaccine benchmarks. He highlighted difficulties faced by home-based businesses in accessing grants and echoed his colleague's calls for more support for reopening businesses and resuming care home visits.
Claudia Webbe
Lab
Leicester East
Critiques the UK Government's delayed response to the pandemic, highlighting higher death rates compared to other countries and calls for increased financial support and better public health measures. Emphasises the need for a zero-COVID approach, urging the government to provide adequate assistance to affected individuals and businesses.
Bob Stewart
Con
Beckenham
Raises concerns about vaccine distribution, inconsistencies in school closures compared to pre-schools, potential misuse of key worker status by parents, difficulties faced by musicians due to travel restrictions, and the future viability of the hospitality industry.
Lee Rowley
Con
North East Derbyshire
Acknowledges public scepticism about Government's strategy and highlights the need for continued suppression efforts despite vaccine rollouts. Criticises individuals spreading misinformation about the pandemic, urging constituents to disregard these false assertions.
Tim Farron
Lib Dem
Westmorland and Lonsdale
Agrees with the need for clarity on government advice. Criticises lack of clarity regarding exercise restrictions in rural areas. Expresses concern over unemployment and furlough rates in his constituency, particularly due to reliance on tourism and hospitality industries. Calls for deferral of business rates and VAT reduction for a further year, extension of furlough support beyond March, and increased grant support for businesses.
David Amess
Con
Southend West
Expresses difficulties in finding new things to say about the pandemic. Requests assurance on vaccine distribution for Southend's high number of centenarians. Urges clearer rules for police enforcement and advocates for support for directors of limited companies, cut business rates, targeted support for hospitality businesses, and remote learning support for vulnerable students.
Steven Baker
Con
Wycombe
Calls for hope in the face of high hospitalization rates. Denounces false conspiracy theories about PCR tests and emphasises the importance of presenting medical care needs during the pandemic. Urges government to prioritise proper cost-benefit analysis, good-quality enforcement, and support the vaccination programme to bring an end to restrictions.
Sally-Ann Hart
SNP
Hamilton
Focuses on the impact of covid-19 measures on university students. Criticises the reduced educational experience due to remote learning and calls for reduction in student fees and rent charges for hall accommodation during lockdowns. Argues that supporting students through this period is crucial for future economic recovery.
Andrew Griffith
Con
Arundel and South Downs
Griffith highlighted the plight of students under-represented in the House since the start of the pandemic. He cited a constituent, Bella, who expressed disappointment about being unable to access her university experience due to online learning and restrictions on accommodation return. Griffith proposed three actions for the government: supporting undergraduates' structured return with testing, extending the summer term, and considering financial support packages for students.
Selaine Saxby
Con
North Devon
Saxby expressed hope that this period of national restrictions would be brief to allow young people to return to education. She emphasised the need for guidance to focus on areas with high transmission and called for actions to reduce pressure on the NHS during level 5 of the alert system. Saxby also highlighted the work of the National Bereavement Partnership and thanked Michaela Willis and her team for their support.
Andy Carter
Lab
Warrington South
Carter discussed the rapid spread of coronavirus in Warrington, noting a sharp increase in cases since early October. He emphasised the strain on local NHS due to high patient numbers and ICU capacity being exceeded. Carter praised community testing hubs and vaccination efforts but requested continued vaccine supplies for drive-through services. He also urged the Government to consider how business rates funding can support small businesses, freelancers, and directors of small limited companies.
Robbie Moore
Con
Keighley and Ilkley
Moore spoke about enforcement issues during lockdowns, suggesting that the police should engage with the public, explain rules, encourage compliance, and enforce as a last resort. He also discussed support for businesses and people, noting delays in grant payments from local councils and urging the Government to provide direct support if necessary. Moore further called for key workers, teachers, and nursery staff to be considered for the next category of vaccine roll-out.
Aaron Bell
Con
Stafford
Welcomed the vaccine delivery panel and congratulated Ministers on their efforts. Emphasised the need for more vaccine supply and increased manufacturing capabilities. Highlighted the excellent response in Staffordshire but urged for greater capacity to deliver vaccines faster. Called for more transparency regarding scientific advice and data fragmentation. Noted the human cost of the pandemic, referencing local deaths and hospital pressure.
Richard Holden
Con
Basildon and Billericay
Stressed the significant impact of the pandemic on North West Durham in terms of deaths and economic losses. Praised the efforts of local NHS staff and urged everyone to get vaccinated as soon as possible. Questioned when regional breakdowns would be available for vaccine distribution. Called for an end to lockdown at the earliest safe opportunity.
Bob Seely
Con
Isle of Wight
Commended the vaccination efforts on the Isle of Wight and expressed concern about delays in receiving vaccines for new centres. Asked for a medium-term outline to help businesses plan, particularly those in the hospitality and festival sectors. Highlighted that vaccinating high-risk groups could significantly reduce deaths by early March.
Justin Madders
Lab
Ellesmere Port and Bromborough
The Labour Party highlights the inadequacy of current lockdown rules due to the more transmissible variant, criticises failures in testing, contact tracing, PPE distribution, support for self-isolation, and tier systems. The speaker urges detailed vaccine roll-out plans, rapid vaccination of NHS staff, updates on secure care homes, and implementation of further measures based on SAGE advice.
Jo Churchill
Con
Bosworth
Echoed gratitude for frontline workers, thanked diverse healthcare teams, and emphasised the importance of following rules to minimise transmission. Called on people to support the health service by adhering to guidelines during vaccine rollout. Acknowledged efforts in rolling out vaccines through community pharmacists and mobilising various parts of the system. Reiterated that no national shortage of oxygen exists but acknowledged challenges and mitigations being implemented.
Andrew Griffith
Con
Arundel and South Downs
Thanked dedicated healthcare professionals, highlighted the complexity and dedication involved in vaccine rollouts at GP surgeries, and suggested that more practices should avail themselves of vaccines to support efforts.
Expressed concern about elderly individuals not being contacted for vaccination appointments. Suggested setting up a local telephone number for information and queries regarding vaccinations among the elderly population.
Mitcham and Morden
Inquired about supply of oxygen in hospitals, particularly highlighting issues at Epsom and St Helier trust and other London trusts under pressure.
Richard Holden
Con
Basildon and Billericay
Emphasised the desire to relax rules as soon as possible while ensuring safety for constituents, reflecting on the challenging nature of implementing such measures in politics.
Government Response
Government Response
Argar responded positively to concerns raised about postal delays and vaccine notifications. He reassured that alternative methods are being considered and the government is persistent in ensuring everyone receives their vaccination.
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Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy
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