Covid-19 Preparations and Support 2020-11-02
2020-11-02
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Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Direct Answer
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The MP asks about the specific preparations made by the Department for supporting NHS trusts in responding to the ongoing pandemic.
What preparations has his Department made to support the NHS and other public bodies with their response to covid-19 during winter 2020-21?
Defence has supported NHS trusts through distribution of personal protective equipment, diagnostic equipment, planning and staffing Nightingale hospitals, and deploying service personnel to conduct testing. A winter support force of 7,500 is established for continued support during the period.
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Q2
Direct Answer
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The MP welcomes the Prime Minister's comments about the use of military logistical expertise in combating the virus but seeks assurance that this will not detract from essential defense operations.
Can my right hon. Friend assure us that supporting NHS trusts and other public bodies during the pandemic does not come at the expense of the armed forces' vital work defending the nation?
Throughout the pandemic, efforts have been made both to assist other government departments in tackling the virus and to ensure critical defence outputs are maintained. Continuous at-sea deterrent, quick reaction alert force, and a range of other capabilities remain safeguarded.
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Q3
Direct Answer
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The MP acknowledges the role of armed forces in testing for covid-19 and suggests focusing on their community service efforts during remembrance.
Does the Minister agree that we should focus not just on the loss of life in battle but also on the commitment our armed forces make to serve communities every day, particularly during Remembrance Sunday?
Throughout the pandemic, the military has committed significant personnel and effort in helping government tasks. Despite restrictions, all efforts will be made to mark Remembrance Sunday appropriately, recognising current sacrifices of armed forces along with past conflicts.
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Q4
Direct Answer
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The MP highlights the impressive engineering, logistical and organisational expertise brought by armed forces during the construction of a Yorkshire and Humber Nightingale hospital.
Will my right hon. Friend focus on additional complementary skills that our forces can bring to combatting this virus, particularly speed?
My hon. Friend highlights the effort of the military in setting up Nightingale hospital in Harrogate and other NHS tasks, noting resilience as a key part of defence skill to be brought for support across government.
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Q5
Direct Answer
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The MP raises the issue of regular updates to the House about military personnel deployment and their numbers.
Does the Secretary of State agree that Government should keep the House regularly updated on the number of personnel deployed, how they are being used, and if further strengthening will be necessary?
Grateful for raising this point, updates on MACA tasks can be placed in the Library of Commons. Currently 7,500 personnel are ready but under review, with significant asks from local authorities being examined.
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