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Government Response to Covid-19 — [Sir Charles Walker in the Chair]

03 November 2020

Lead MP

Richard Drax
South Dorset
Con

Responding Minister

Penny Mordaunt

Tags

NHS
Word Count: 13693
Other Contributors: 12

At a Glance

Richard Drax raised concerns about government response to covid-19 — [sir charles walker in the chair] in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.

Key Requests to Government:

Drax urges the Government to abandon lockdowns in favour of protecting vulnerable individuals while allowing the majority of the population to resume normal life with common-sense precautions. He also calls for transparency on the number of deaths caused by lockdown measures and stresses the importance of keeping schools open, universities functioning as usual, and businesses operational.

How the Debate Unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:

Lead Contributor

South Dorset
Opened the debate
Richard Drax is concerned about the effectiveness of lockdown measures and their impact on personal freedoms. He highlights that lockdowns delay the inevitable spread of the virus, suggesting they have not worked as intended. Drax mentions contradictory advice given to the Government and points out that some forecasts predicting high death rates did not materialise. He also raises issues with current regulations such as fines for gatherings exceeding 30 people and a curfew at 10pm, arguing these measures are oppressive and harmful to businesses.

Government Response

Penny Mordaunt
Government Response
Explained that the lockdown aims to prevent overwhelming NHS capacity and avoid deaths from COVID-19. Acknowledged economic costs but argued that not pursuing this strategy would result in higher overall costs. Mentioned the need for better data provision, devolution challenges, and future recovery planning.
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.