Covid-19 Death and Infection Rate Air Quality 2020-05-19
2020-05-19
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Direct Answer
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Context
Discussions on the link between air quality and exacerbation of covid-19 symptoms. DEFRA has been considering this relationship with the Department of Health and Social Care.
What discussions have you had with the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care on the link between air quality and the exacerbation of covid-19 symptoms?
DEFRA has had extensive discussions with the Department of Health and Social Care on the relationship between air quality and health. They are working with Public Health England and the ONS to assess further the relationship for the UK, and DEFRA's chief scientific adviser is working with relevant experts in health, disease and air quality to assess the relationship between air quality and the risk of infection.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
Harvard University research suggests a strong correlation between air quality and covid deaths. QMUL has shown short-term pollution increases infection risk.
Will the Minister meet me, academics from Harvard and Queen Mary on 29 May to discuss this research with the aim of introducing WHO air quality standards into the Environment Bill?
The Department, Public Health England and ONS are assessing evidence of association between PM2.5 exposure and covid-19 mortality. The clean air strategy includes measures to reduce fine particulate matter. Due to lockdown, joining the APPG would be difficult but she is interested in feedback from the meeting.
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Assessment & feedback
Meeting on 29 May with specific academics was not confirmed
Joining The Appg Would Be Difficult
Response accuracy
Q3
Direct Answer
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Context
Taxi drivers in Nottingham worry about investing in new clean vehicles due to lost income. Businesses face similar pressures.
How will the Government support local councils and small businesses to go faster with protecting public from toxic air, especially considering economic impacts on taxi drivers and other businesses?
Nottingham received £1 million investment for e-taxis and £1.7 million to retrofit buses, eliminating the need for a clean air zone. Nottingham is also part of Go Ultra Low cities. Officials will work closely with Nottingham City Council to understand coronavirus impacts on plans.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy