Questions & Answers
Q1
Direct Answer
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The UK is developing its own covid-19 vaccines while participating in global efforts through COVAX.
What diplomatic steps the Government are taking to support the development of a covid-19 vaccine (a) in the UK and (b) throughout the world?
The UK is committed to rapid, equitable access to safe and effective vaccines through multilateral collaboration. We support the COVAX advance market commitment, contributing up to £548 million for developing countries and £71 million for self-financing countries.
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Q2
Partial Answer
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The UK has committed funds to COVAX, but there are concerns about the adequacy of infrastructure support for mass roll-out in developing countries.
In a pandemic we are only as strong as our weakest link. Is the Minister convinced that, even though we are one of the largest donors, we are doing enough to ensure that developing nations have the infrastructure they need to organise a mass roll-out of the vaccine?
A pandemic response requires global collaboration, including multilateral approaches and bilateral deals. The Minister welcomes AstraZeneca's commitment to non-profitable access during the pandemic, estimating up to 3 billion doses globally by 2021.
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the adequacy of infrastructure support in developing nations
A Pandemic Response Is Absolutely What We Need To Tackle This Virus
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Q3
Direct Answer
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Following up on previous questions, the issue of specific steps taken by the UK government for vaccine provision to developing countries is raised.
My question follows on from that asked by the hon. Member for Wallasey (Ms Eagle). What specific steps is my hon. Friend the Minister taking to ensure that the UK is at the forefront of providing vaccines to vulnerable countries around the world?
Our £250 million funding for Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations helps develop scalable vaccine candidates. Contributions of up to £548 million to COVAX AMC aim to supply 1 billion doses for 92 developing countries in 75 days by 2021. The World Bank has secured $12 billion financing support for access.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy