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Departmental Contingent Liability Notification (Human Challenge Project)

26 November 2020

Proposing MP
Reading West
Type
Written Ministerial Statement
Department
Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy

At a Glance

Issue Summary

The statement discusses a contingent liability related to the Human Challenge Project contract between the Government and Imperial College London.

Action Requested

The government is committing £33.6 million for the Human Challenge Project, with the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy providing an excess relief claim of up to £15,000 per volunteer (up to 90 volunteers) beyond Imperial's own insurance coverage of £10m.

Key Facts

  • The project was announced on 20 October.
  • A £33.6 million investment will support the Human Challenge Project.
  • Imperial College London, hVIVO, and the Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust are involved in the project.
  • Virus Characterisation Study will start in January 2021.
  • Imperial has taken out its own insurance up to £10m for 36 months after completion of the study.
  • The Department is providing an excess relief claim of up to £15,000 per volunteer (up to 90 volunteers) beyond Imperial's coverage.
  • Unlimited indemnity will be provided by the Department beyond the £10 million limit.
Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy