Covid-19: Vaccination of Children

The MP questioned the government's decision to vaccinate children aged 12 to 15 against the JCVI recommendation, highlighting that children are at a low risk of severe illness or death from covid-19. He also expressed concern over the Gillick principle allowing minors to consent to vaccines against their parents' wishes and called for more research on vaccine safety and efficacy. Raised concerns about professional advice regarding vaccine roll-out for children aged 12 to 15.

Challenges have been raised concerning families' ability to access their family doctor for advice on vaccines. The former vaccines Minister could not provide assurances about such access, which is necessary especially given the government's statement that families do have this access. He expressed concern over the lack of clarity in defining success for the vaccination programme, noting that it could lead to continued rollouts without clear goals. He also highlighted the potential negative impact on public trust and confidence due to compulsory vaccinations in certain sectors. Asked why adults are recommended to have two doses of the vaccine with a possible booster, while children receive only one dose. Inquired about drug companies seeking approval for vaccinations for five-year-olds, asking if this is being ruled in or out by the UK government.

I congratulate the Minister and my hon. Friend on securing the debate. Derek Thomas argues that vaccinating children aged 12 to 15 goes against giving people freedom of choice, considering all that has been said about consent this morning. He describes his constituency's success in rolling out the vaccine programme with an amazing system, but questions why the Government reject JCVI advice now. He fears the decision risks undermining confidence and turning a national effort into a tool to pressure children, undermine parents and drive a wedge between families and schools. Asked questions about the process of consent in cases where parents and children disagree on vaccination.

He expressed concern that parents or children who choose not to be vaccinated may face disapproval from others in the school community, leading to potential social pressures.

My hon. Friend the Member for Penistone and Stocksbridge is making an excellent speech, but she shares concerns about the message regarding parental authority if children as young as 12 are allowed to challenge their parents' decision regarding vaccination.

Mr. Jim Shannon congratulated the hon. Member for Penistone and Stocksbridge on initiating the debate, expressing agreement with her ideas. He highlighted the importance of family in society and shared his experience as a grandparent dealing with childminding challenges. He expressed support for vaccination but stressed the need for parental consent based on medical advice. Shannon raised concerns about the current isolation system's impact on children and families and called for better handling of situations where only one child is infected. He cited data suggesting that natural immunity might be stronger than vaccine-induced immunity, emphasizing the need to allow parents to make informed decisions regarding their children's health. The MP asked Andrew Lewer if he believes the Minister should mention discussions with the Secretary of State for Education to establish a uniform policy across all schools regarding children's vaccination.

Mr McCartney expressed deep concern over the potential harm to children from vaccine mandates, citing the lack of long-term studies on safety and efficacy. He questioned the rationale behind vaccinating 12-15 year olds when many have already recovered from covid-19 naturally. Mr McCartney also raised issues about stigmatising parents who are hesitant due to fears over side effects, particularly heart impacts for young males and reproductive issues reported by females. The MP inquired about the strength of any vaccine that might be administered to children under 16 years old. Requests the hon. Lady to give way before continuing her speech. Noted that only one Opposition Member spoke in support of the Government's position. Raised concerns about testing school children for covid and suggested avoiding hype around the issue.

Welcomed the vaccine programme for children aged 12 to 15, highlighting its benefits for health and education. Condemned threats against headteachers and called on the Government to address such intimidations. Emphasised that vaccination will be voluntary and conducted by NHS professionals.