← Back to Westminster Hall Debates
Covid-19 Vaccines: Safety
24 October 2022
Lead MP
Elliot Colburn
Responding Minister
Caroline Johnson
Tags
Foreign Affairs
Word Count: 12757
Other Contributors: 8
At a Glance
Elliot Colburn raised concerns about covid-19 vaccines: safety in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
Key Requests to Government:
The lead MP requests further details from the Minister about how the ongoing public inquiry will investigate vaccine safety issues, including how individuals can contribute to this process.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Opened the debate
The lead MP is concerned about the growing volume of data suggesting a link between cardiovascular issues and the rollout of the Covid-19 vaccine. He mentioned that the petition in question has over 107,000 signatures, with many signatories expressing fears about heart attacks and other health issues following vaccination. The MHRA has been briefed on the concerns but maintains that the vaccines are safe after rigorous testing. Reports have noted rare cases of myocarditis and pericarditis, typically mild and short-lived.
Andrew Bridgen
Con
North West Leicestershire
Unlike any other vaccine, the covid vaccine was given to people who had natural immunity because they had provably contracted the virus. He questioned why those individuals were vaccinated. Andrew Bridgen raised concerns about the safety of vaccines, citing a study showing that one in 500 children under five years old who received a Pfizer mRNA vaccine were hospitalised with vaccine injuries. He questioned why we are vaccinating healthy children at minimal risk from covid-19 and highlighted more than 1,200 claims to the vaccine damage payment scheme, worth £120,000 each if successful. Bridgen also pointed out that there is a higher level of cardiac-related death among males aged 18 to 39 within 28 days following vaccination. Mr Bridgen highlighted contradictory advice issued by government bodies regarding vaccines for pregnant and breastfeeding women, as well as an increase in heart attacks and related illnesses since the start of the vaccination programme. Mr Bridgen mentioned a Pfizer representative's admission during a European Parliament committee interview that no testing was done to see whether the vaccination prevented transmission of the virus.
Andrew Gwynne
Ind
Gorton and Denton
The MP affirmed the safety of the covid-19 vaccine, stating that it has saved countless lives. He noted that over 51 million people have been fully vaccinated in the UK and more than 151 million doses administered, highlighting the importance of vaccines in reclaiming liberties during the pandemic. Gwynne reiterated the rigorous testing process for all vaccines and expressed confidence in ongoing monitoring by the MHRA to ensure vaccine benefits outweigh any risks.
Apsana Begum
Lab
Poplar and Limehouse
The hon. Member agreed that it is important for the Minister to explain how people who say they have experienced damage from the vaccine can ensure that their concerns are heard through meaningful ways such as the yellow card scheme, module in the public inquiry, and applying for vaccine damage compensation.
Christchurch
I wrote to Baroness Hallett asking her to ensure that the terms of reference specifically covered the safety and impact of vaccines. The terms of reference were amended as a result of representations from various individuals, making it clear that vaccines, their impact, and potential damage are included. Mr Chope, chair of the all-party parliamentary group on covid-19 vaccine damage, highlighted concerns over cardiovascular problems linked to vaccines and called for an inquiry into vaccine safety. He cited a German regulator's findings that one in 5,000 people experienced serious side effects after vaccination, urging MPs to look beyond UK regulators and consider international evidence. Mr Chope also criticised the Government's denial of risks associated with boosters and highlighted issues with the vaccine damage payment scheme, which he argued does not adequately support those severely affected by vaccines. Mr Chope questioned why vaccine manufacturers sought indemnity against liability for negligence from the Government and taxpayers if vaccines were so safe. Christopher Chope inquires what assistance or compensation the Government provides for individuals who suffer a 50% disability as a result of an adverse reaction to the vaccine. He further requests that the Minister address the all-party parliamentary group on covid-19 vaccine damage in a private meeting.
Danny Kruger
Reform
East Wiltshire
Mr Kruger raised concerns about the extension of the vaccine programme to the entire population, suggesting it became an operation in public persuasion rather than informed consent. He questioned why vaccination was extended beyond initial plans and highlighted issues with misinformation around vaccine efficacy and transmission prevention. Mr Kruger also mentioned increases in myocarditis rates among young people and called for a review of child vaccinations. He asked the Minister to broaden the terms of reference for Baroness Hallett's inquiry to explicitly include vaccine safety and efficacy, advocate for more support for those injured or bereaved by vaccines, and engage with affected individuals.
John Hayes
Con
South Holland and The Deepings
Mr Hayes highlighted the qualitative difference between traditional vaccines and current Covid-19 vaccines, emphasizing that while vaccination in general has saved millions of lives, these specific vaccines are distinct and require careful consideration. People outside the House will not know that although the Minister has been in her job a relatively short time, she is remarkably dedicated and diligent. John Hayes asks the Minister to consider all available information, including international data, when drawing conclusions about this debate.
Natalie Elphicke
Con
Natalie Elphicke acknowledged the importance of raising contentious issues through petitions. She mentioned that she has received concerns from constituents about vaccine side effects, including menstrual cycle variations and long-term fertility impacts. Elphicke called for the Government to consider these concerns seriously.
Steven Bonnar
SNP
Coatbridge, Chryston and Bellshill
Mr Bonnar emphasised that vaccines have saved millions of lives globally, with an estimated 19.8 million out of a potential 31.4 million covid-19 deaths prevented worldwide in the first year of the vaccination programme. He called for an immediate and complete scientific investigation to determine vaccine safety.
Government Response
Caroline Johnson
Government Response
Responded to points raised in the debate, thanking Members for their support of the vaccine programme. Highlighted that over 151 million vaccines have been delivered in the UK, with more than 90% of people aged 12 and over receiving at least one dose. Acknowledged concerns about safety but reassured that all vaccines meet robust standards set by the MHRA. Emphasized ongoing surveillance for adverse reactions and quick responses to issues like thrombosis and myocarditis. Cited studies showing low risks compared to benefits of vaccination, including averting up to 128,000 deaths and 262,000 hospitalisations. Encouraged eligible individuals to receive their autumn booster and flu vaccines.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy
About Westminster Hall Debates
Westminster Hall debates are a chance for MPs to raise important issues affecting their constituents and get a response from a government minister. Unlike Prime Minister's Questions, these debates are more in-depth and collaborative. The MP who secured the debate speaks first, other MPs can contribute, and a minister responds with the government's position.