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Vaccine Update

08 December 2020

Proposing MP
Stratford-on-Avon
Type
Written Ministerial Statement
Department
Department of Health and Social Care

At a Glance

Issue Summary

The statement addresses the contingent liabilities related to the contract between HMG and Pfizer/BioNTech for their COVID-19 vaccine.

Action Requested

I have laid a Departmental Minute today containing a description of the liability undertaken in relation to the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine, as part of the government's strategy to manage COVID-19 until an effective vaccine can be deployed at scale. The statement also notes that indemnities are provided for unforeseen adverse reactions.

Key Facts

  • On December 2, the MHRA gave authorisation for the use of the Pfizer/BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine.
  • The agreement includes an indemnity to secure access to vaccines with expected benefits to public health and the economy.
  • Other nation states are offering indemnities as part of their contractual arrangements or other means like the US PREP Act.
Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy