Biosecurity Threats 2024-05-20
2024-05-20
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Direct Answer
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Context
Defence is focused on detecting biological threats which require collaboration across departments.
What steps he is taking with Cabinet colleagues to help detect biosecurity threats. We continue to work closely with the Cabinet Office and are prioritising funding for the UK Microbial Forensics Consortium.
Defence remains committed to detecting biological threats. We continue to work closely with the Cabinet Office on this matter and are the lead Department for the “detect” pillar of the biological security strategy. We have prioritised funding to create the UK Microbial Forensics Consortium, which will strengthen our ability to detect biosecurity threats.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q2
Direct Answer
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Context
Concern about the rising costs of biosecurity failures and the need to address synthetic threats.
Will the Minister ensure that he works with the Cabinet Office, UK Health Security Agency, Department of Health and Social Care and others to ensure biosecurity, including protection from synthetic new threats, is at the top of the agenda? As funding for defence increases to 2.5% of GDP.
We certainly will. Through the biological security strategy and the associated governance structure, we are working closely with the UK Health Security Agency to co-ordinate our response to the biodefence risk, and we are investing £5 million a year in our international biosecurity programme.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
Concerns about increasing Russian interference in the economy and other aspects of British life.
Does the Minister agree that there are real concerns in light of recent reports about the increasing recklessness with which Russian operatives may interfere in our economy, directly and indirectly, and every other aspect of British lives? Are we prepared for that kind of mischievousness?
Yes, we are.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific measures and preparedness not addressed
One Word Answer
Response accuracy