Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

Covid-19: Innova Lateral Flow Tests

Tuesday 12 January 2021 · 2 questions

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Answered 0 Partly answered 2 Not answered 0

Key points

  • Neale Hanvey inquired about the evidential basis for using Innova lateral flow tests for covid-19 in asymptomatic individuals.
  • The Minister responded that Innova lateral flow tests are crucial for identifying asymptomatic cases shedding viral load.
  • Neale Hanvey requested a meeting to further discuss concerns over the accuracy and reliability of lateral flow tests.

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Questions & Answers

Q1 Neale Hanvey
NHS
Context

The MP inquired about the use of Innova lateral flow tests for asymptomatic individuals, citing concerns that have persisted since early November.

Question

What is the evidential basis for using Innova lateral flow tests for covid-19 in asymptomatic people? This question follows ongoing concerns raised since November regarding the accuracy and reliability of these tests.

Answer from Matthew Hancock

We identify, analyse and publish the evidential basis for using Innova lateral flow tests for covid-19. These tests are crucial in identifying those who are shedding viral load due to their infection.

Partly answered

Not addressed: The MP's specific ask regarding detailed evidence was not directly addressed with a clear commitment or statistical backing.

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Q2 Neale Hanvey
NHS
Context

The MP continues to raise concerns about the use of lateral flow tests, noting previous Departmental communications suggesting they are not a reliable method for asymptomatic screening.

Question

Thanking the Secretary of State for his response and acknowledging past discussions, the MP expresses ongoing concerns regarding the accuracy and reliability of lateral flow tests as communicated by the department on 11 December. He asks for a meeting to further discuss these issues in detail.

Answer from Matthew Hancock

Lateral flow tests are vital for identifying asymptomatic cases, which helps break transmission chains. One in three people has this disease without knowing it.

Partly answered

Not addressed: The specific ask regarding a meeting was not directly addressed with a commitment to schedule one.

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