Coronavirus: lessons learnt

Science, Innovation and Technology Committee Closed Inquiry
Opened: 6 Oct 2020 Closed: 28 May 2024 Parliament page
The Health and Social Care Committee and Science and Technology Committee are holding a joint inquiry into lessons to be learned from the response to the coronavirus pandemic so far. The two Select Committees will jointly conduct evidence sessions examining the impact and effectiveness of action taken by government and … Read more
20 Recommendations
380 Conclusions
2 Reports
12 Oral sessions
15 Letters
14 Events
Activity timeline 45 events
22 May
2024
Correspondence
22 May
2024
Correspondence
4 Mar
2024
Oral evidence
4 Mar
2024
Formal meeting (oral evidence session) · Room 16, Palace of Westminster
27 Jan
2023
Correspondence
27 Jan
2023
Correspondence
27 Jan
2023
Correspondence
13 Jan
2023
Correspondence
13 Jan
2023
Correspondence
30 Nov
2022
Oral evidence
30 Nov
2022
Formal meeting (oral evidence session) · The Boothroyd Room, Portcullis House
30 Jun
2022
Report published
Oral evidence sessions 12 sessions
4 Mar 2024
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MPs to examine UK preparedness for future pandemics
Professor Dame Jenny Harries · UK Health Security Agency Professor Sir John Bell · Oxford University
30 Nov 2022
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Panel One; Panel Two; Panel Three; Panel Four
Clara Swinson · Department for Health and Social Care Dame Kate Bingham · UK Vaccine Taskforce Dr Dame Jenny Harries OBE · UK Health Security Agency Dr Thomas Waite · Department for Health and Social Care Michelle Dyson · Department for Education Neil O'Brien MP · Department for Health and Social Care Professor Sir John Bell · Oxford University
10 Jun 2021
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Rt Hon Matt Hancock · Department for Health and Social Care
26 May 2021
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Dominic Cummings, Former Chief Adviser to the Prime Minister
26 Jan 2021
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Sir Simon Stevens · NHS England and NHS Improvement
2 Dec 2020
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Lord Mark Sedwill, Cabinet Secretary (2018-2020) Professor Dame Sally Davies, Chief Medical Officer for England (2010-2019) Sir Mark Walport, Government Chief Scientific Adviser (2013-2017) Sir Oliver Letwin, Cabinet Office Minister (2010-2016)
1 Dec 2020
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Dr Habib Naqvi · NHS Race and Health Observatory, NHS Confederation Iain Bell · Office for National Statistics James O'Rourke, family carer Professor Doctor Ramani Mooneshinghe · NHS England and NHS Improvement Professor Kevin Fenton · Public Health England Steve Scown · Dimensions UK
24 Nov 2020
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Coronavirus: lessons learnt
Alex Thomas · Institute for Government Clara Swinson · Department for Health and Social Care Dr Jenny Harries · Department for Health and Social Care Professor Devi Sridhar · University of Edinburgh Rt Hon Matt Hancock · Department of Health and Social Care
10 Nov 2020
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Baroness Dido Harding · NHS Test and Trace Dr Susan Hopkins · UK Health Security Agency Professor Dame Anne Johnson · University College London Professor Dominic Harrison · Darwen Borough Council Professor Gerard Krause · Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research Professor Jo Martin · Royal College of Pathologists Professor Sir Chris Ham · NHS Assembly Professor Sir John Bell · Oxford University
4 Nov 2020
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Kate Bingham · UK Vaccine Taskforce Professor Andrew Pollard · University of Oxford Professor Peter Horby · University of Oxford Professor Robin Shattock · Imperial College London Professor Wei Shen Lim · JCVI COVID-19 sub-committee
21 Oct 2020
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Dr Clare Gardiner · Joint Biosecurity Centre Dr Max Roser · Oxford Martin Programme on Global Development Professor Axel Gandy · Imperial College London Professor David Heymann · London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Professor John Edmunds OBE · London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Professor Mark Woolhouse OBE · University of Edinburgh Sir Ian Diamond · Office of National Statistics
13 Oct 2020
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David Pearson · Department of Health and Social Care Helen Spalding, carer Helen Whately MP · Department of Health and Social Care Jane Townson · UK Homecare Association Kathy Roberts · Care Providers Alliance Michelle Dyson · Department for Education Philip Scott, carer Professor David Oliver · Royal Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust Professor Jane Cummings · Department for Health and Social Care Theresa Steed · Tunbridge Wells Care Centre
Recommendations & Conclusions
400 results
58 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The UK has established procedures and structures to prepare for the nation’s major future risks,...
The UK has established procedures and structures to prepare for the nation’s major future risks, including a National Risk Register, the Civil Contingencies Secretariat and the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE). However, the anticipated future risk of pandemic disease … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation.
Department for Science, Innovation and Technology
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59 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Previous exercises to test the national response capability, namely Exercises Cygnus and Winter Willow, did...
Previous exercises to test the national response capability, namely Exercises Cygnus and Winter Willow, did not squarely address a disease with the characteristics of covid-19. Nevertheless, some useful lessons were learned and applied, such as the drafting of legislative measures … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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60 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The operation of COBR was not well-suited to the modern demands of a pandemic response.
The operation of COBR was not well-suited to the modern demands of a pandemic response. It is especially concerning that its culture of confidentiality was considered by some to be so unreliable that alternative meetings were arranged that could command … Read more
Government Response
The government does not accept this recommendation.
Department for Science, Innovation and Technology
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61 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The Civil Contingencies Secretariat did not have adequate resources to maintain a substantial standing capability...
The Civil Contingencies Secretariat did not have adequate resources to maintain a substantial standing capability to survey the development of potential threats, and it had a limited reach into the range of Government departments required to respond to a pandemic. … Read more
Government Response
The government does not accept this recommendation for the reason that there exist already a range of complementary standing capabilities that aim to identify and assess current and future malicious … Read more
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62 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Protocols to share data between public bodies involved in the response were too slow to...
Protocols to share data between public bodies involved in the response were too slow to establish and to become functional. This was especially true in the data flows from national to local government.
Government Response
Arrangements should be established and tested to allow immediate flows of data between bodies relevant to an emergency response with a mechanism to resolve immediately and decisively any disputes.
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63 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The NHS responded quickly and strongly to the demands of the pandemic, but compared to...
The NHS responded quickly and strongly to the demands of the pandemic, but compared to other health systems it “runs hot”—with little spare capacity built in to cope with sudden and unexpected surges of demand such as in a pandemic. … Read more
Government Response
The experience of the demands placed on the NHS during the COVID-19 pandemic should lead to a more explicit, and monitored, surge capacity being part of the long term organisation … Read more
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64 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
A greater diversity of expertise and challenge—including from practitioners from other countries and a wider...
A greater diversity of expertise and challenge—including from practitioners from other countries and a wider range of disciplines—should be included in the framing of the National Risk Register and the plans that emanate from it. Plans for the future should … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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65 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
A standing capability should be established in Government, or reporting to it, to scan the...
A standing capability should be established in Government, or reporting to it, to scan the horizon for future threats, with adequate resource and counting on specialists with an independence from short-term political and administrative pressures.
Government Response
The government does not accept this recommendation for the reason that there exist already a range of complementary standing capabilities that aim to identify and assess current and future malicious … Read more
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66 Recommendation
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The Government should ensure comprehensive plans are made for future risks and emergencies.
The Government should ensure comprehensive plans are made for future risks and emergencies. The UK should aim to be a world leader in co-ordinating international resilience planning, including reform of the World Health Organisation to ensure that it is able … Read more
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67 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The resourcing and capabilities of the Civil Contingencies Secretariat should be improved.
The resourcing and capabilities of the Civil Contingencies Secretariat should be improved. The Civil Contingencies Secretariat should be empowered to ‘stress test’ plans and to ensure that Departments are able to carry out a contingency plan if required. The details … Read more
Government Response
Arrangements should be established and tested to allow immediate flows of data between bodies relevant to an emergency response with a mechanism to resolve immediately and decisively any disputes.
Department for Science, Innovation and Technology
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68 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Arrangements should be established and tested to allow immediate flows of data between bodies relevant...
Arrangements should be established and tested to allow immediate flows of data between bodies relevant to an emergency response with a mechanism to resolve immediately and decisively any disputes.
Government Response
The government accepts this recommendation. UKHSA will work with partners to improve data sharing agreements. All data flows will be developed with appropriate safeguards to ensure GDPR compliance and to … Read more
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69 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The Armed Forces should have a more central and standing role in preparing for and...
The Armed Forces should have a more central and standing role in preparing for and responding to emergencies like pandemics, given the depth of capability and experience they have in planning, logistics and rapid mobilisation. The Civil Contingencies Secretariat should … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The Armed Forces have and continue to play an important role in preparing for and responding to emergencies, providing unique capabilities to support civil … Read more
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70 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The Government and the NHS should consider establishing a volunteer reserve database so that volunteers...
The Government and the NHS should consider establishing a volunteer reserve database so that volunteers who have had appropriate checks can be rapidly called up and deployed in an emergency rather than needing to begin from scratch.
Government Response
The government accepts this recommendation. The government recognises that volunteers played a vital role in the COVID-19 response and continues to explore options for establishing a volunteer reserve database to … Read more
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71 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The experience of the demands placed on the NHS during the covid-19 pandemic should lead...
The experience of the demands placed on the NHS during the covid-19 pandemic should lead to a more explicit, and monitored, surge capacity being part of the long term organisation and funding of the NHS.
Government Response
The government accepts this recommendation. NHS England is developing proposals for implementing surge capacity plans in the NHS, taking into account the lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic. These proposals … Read more
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72 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The NHS should develop and publish new protocols for infection prevention and control in pandemics...
The NHS should develop and publish new protocols for infection prevention and control in pandemics covering staffing, bed capacity and physical infrastructure. In developing these protocols the NHS should consider the importance of maintaining access for people accompanying some patients … Read more
Government Response
The government accepts this recommendation. NHS England is committed to developing and publishing new protocols for infection prevention and control in pandemics, covering staffing, bed capacity, and physical infrastructure. In … Read more
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73 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Comprehensive analysis should be carried out to assess the safety of running the NHS with...
Comprehensive analysis should be carried out to assess the safety of running the NHS with the limited latent capacity that it currently has, particularly in Intensive Care Units, critical care units and high dependency units.
Government Response
The government accepts this recommendation. NHS England is undertaking comprehensive analysis to assess the safety of running the NHS with the limited latent capacity that it currently has, particularly in … Read more
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74 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Building on the experience of staff working more flexibly during the pandemic and to enable...
Building on the experience of staff working more flexibly during the pandemic and to enable more flexible staffing in the NHS, NHS England and Health Education England should develop proposals to better enable NHS staff to change clinical specialty mid-career … Read more
Government Response
The government accepts this recommendation. NHS England and Health Education England are working together to develop proposals to better enable NHS staff to change clinical specialty mid-career and train in … Read more
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75 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Much of the impact of covid-19 during the first wave was determined by decisions made...
Much of the impact of covid-19 during the first wave was determined by decisions made during the early weeks of the pandemic, between January and late March 2020. The seriousness of the threat to the UK was recognised in January … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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76 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The veil of ignorance through which the UK viewed the initial weeks of the pandemic...
The veil of ignorance through which the UK viewed the initial weeks of the pandemic was partly self-inflicted. As we examine in depth in Chapter 4, the UK failed to turn an early lead in developing a test for covid … Read more
Government Response
The government does not accept this recommendation for the reason that there exist already a range of complementary standing capabilities that aim to identify and assess current and future malicious … Read more
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77 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The initial UK policy was to take a gradual and incremental approach to introducing non-pharmaceutical...
The initial UK policy was to take a gradual and incremental approach to introducing non-pharmaceutical interventions. A comprehensive lockdown was not ordered until 23 March 2020—two months after SAGE first met to consider the national response to covid- 19.99 This … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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78 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
As a result, decisions on lockdowns and social distancing during the early weeks of the...
As a result, decisions on lockdowns and social distancing during the early weeks of the pandemic—and the advice that led to them—rank as one of the most important public health failures the United Kingdom has ever experienced. This happened despite … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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79 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
There has been considerable debate as to whether the early policy of the Government was...
There has been considerable debate as to whether the early policy of the Government was one of seeking to achieve so-called “herd-immunity”. The US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention defines community immunity/herd immunity as: A situation in which a … Read more
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80 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Non-pharmaceutical interventions such as lockdowns, and the testing and isolation of covid cases and their...
Non-pharmaceutical interventions such as lockdowns, and the testing and isolation of covid cases and their contacts, are tools of temporary application. Once they are lifted, there is nothing to stop transmission resuming. When Sir Patrick Vallance said at a Government … Read more
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81 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
From our evidence this appears to have led to a policy approach of fatalism about...
From our evidence this appears to have led to a policy approach of fatalism about the prospects for covid in the community: seeking to manage, but not suppress, infection. This amounted in practice to accepting that herd immunity by infection … Read more
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82 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
So in the absence of a vaccine or an effective treatment being available at first,...
So in the absence of a vaccine or an effective treatment being available at first, the UK faced a choice of doing everything possible to halt the virus, or seeking instead to moderate the pace of its spread. The UK chose the latter.106
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83 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Even as late as 12 March 2020, as noted in paragraph 80, Sir Patrick Vallance,...
Even as late as 12 March 2020, as noted in paragraph 80, Sir Patrick Vallance, Government Chief Scientific Adviser, told a Government press conference that it was not possible to stop everyone being infected, and nor was that a desirable … Read more
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84 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The Government’s action plan of 3 March indicated that there was no intention to bring...
The Government’s action plan of 3 March indicated that there was no intention to bring in a lockdown as strict as had been implemented in some other parts of the world. The action plan, under the heading ‘the Delay phase … Read more
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85 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
At its meeting of 5 March 2020, SAGE reconfirmed an explicitly gradual approach: There is...
At its meeting of 5 March 2020, SAGE reconfirmed an explicitly gradual approach: There is epidemiological and modelling data to support implementation– within 1 to 2 weeks–of individual home isolation (symptomatic individuals to stay at home for 14 days) and … Read more
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86 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
On 9 March 2020, SAGE set out a number of non-pharmaceutical interventions that could in...
On 9 March 2020, SAGE set out a number of non-pharmaceutical interventions that could in due course be introduced by the Government. SAGE advised that “measures relating to individual and household isolation will likely need to be enacted within the … Read more
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87 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
It is striking, looking back, that it was accepted that the level of covid-19 infection...
It is striking, looking back, that it was accepted that the level of covid-19 infection in the UK could be controlled by turning on particular non-pharmaceutical interventions at particular times. Indeed such was the belief in this ability to calibrate … Read more
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88 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
This was not the only way to proceed, and indeed the UK was an outlier...
This was not the only way to proceed, and indeed the UK was an outlier internationally in the gradualist approach that was being taken before late March.120 Countries in East Asia were the first to experience covid-19. Their response was … Read more
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89 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
On 24 February the World Health Organisation published the report of its international mission to...
On 24 February the World Health Organisation published the report of its international mission to Wuhan, and advised that countries should: (1) Immediately activate the highest level of national Response Management protocols to ensure the all-of-government and all-of-society approach needed … Read more
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90 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
In evidence to the Science and Technology Committee on 25 March 2020, the Editor of...
In evidence to the Science and Technology Committee on 25 March 2020, the Editor of The Lancet, Dr Richard Horton, said that his journal had published articles on 24, 29 and 31 January with an analysis of the situation in … Read more
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91 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The UK policy was to change abruptly.
The UK policy was to change abruptly. During the days before 23 March, multiple people within the Government and its advisers experienced simultaneous epiphanies that the course the UK was following was wrong, possibly catastrophically so. In his evidence to … Read more
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92 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
In evidence to the Science and Technology Committee in July 2020, Sir Patrick Vallance, said...
In evidence to the Science and Technology Committee in July 2020, Sir Patrick Vallance, said that SAGE advised the Government to implement the remainder of the menu of options for social distancing measures—in essence a full lockdown—on 16 or 18 … Read more
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93 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
It seems astonishing looking back that—despite the documented experiences of other countries; despite the then...
It seems astonishing looking back that—despite the documented experiences of other countries; despite the then Secretary of State referring to data with a Reasonable Worst Case Scenario of 820,000 deaths;138 despite the raw mathematics of a virus which, if it … Read more
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94 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The UK did not impose blanket or rigorous border controls at the onset of the...
The UK did not impose blanket or rigorous border controls at the onset of the covid-19 pandemic as compared to other countries, particularly in East and South East Asia.140 Instead, the UK implemented light-touch border controls only on countries and … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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95 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
By contrast, other countries implemented more rigorous border controls which were more effective at suppressing...
By contrast, other countries implemented more rigorous border controls which were more effective at suppressing the virus and preventing the need for long and repeated lockdowns. However, even though it is not straightforward to make direct comparisons between countries, and … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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96 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
In the paragraphs that follow we consider some of the potential explanations of why the...
In the paragraphs that follow we consider some of the potential explanations of why the initial decision-making on lockdowns was wrong, and what lessons can be drawn for the future from this. Should the Government have unilaterally taken a precautionary … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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97 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The UK’s structure of scientific advice in emergencies, in which a group is formed of...
The UK’s structure of scientific advice in emergencies, in which a group is formed of relevant experts (SAGE) to advise the Government is a prominent feature of our arrangements—much more so than in many other countries. Initially, participation in SAGE … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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98 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
SAGE provides advice to Ministers, whose responsibility it is to make policy decisions.
SAGE provides advice to Ministers, whose responsibility it is to make policy decisions. However, witnesses to our Committees confirmed that during the early months of the pandemic the Government acted on the scientific advice it was given. Sir Patrick Vallance, … Read more
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99 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
We accept that it is difficult for Ministers to go against a scientific consensus among...
We accept that it is difficult for Ministers to go against a scientific consensus among the body set up to provide scientific advice during a national emergency. We also understand the reluctance to introduce measures with significant negative economic impact. … Read more
Government Response
We accept that it is difficult for Ministers to go against a scientific consensus among the body set up to provide scientific advice during a national emergency. We also understand … Read more
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100 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Several witnesses to our inquiry, reflecting on the early weeks of the pandemic, were rueful...
Several witnesses to our inquiry, reflecting on the early weeks of the pandemic, were rueful that they did not sufficiently question and challenge the advice they were being given. We heard that challenging an established scientific consensus was difficult. Dominic … Read more
Government Response
In future an approach of greater questioning and challenge should characterise the development of policy. Ministers should have the confidence to follow a scientific approach themselves—being prepared to take a … Read more
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101 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The then Secretary of State, Matt Hancock MP, made the same point regarding the difficulty...
The then Secretary of State, Matt Hancock MP, made the same point regarding the difficulty of challenging a scientific consensus.148 On 28 January 2020, SAGE said that testing asymptomatic individuals would “not be useful”.149 However, at the same meeting, SAGE … Read more
Government Response
In future an approach of greater questioning and challenge should characterise the development of policy. Ministers should have the confidence to follow a scientific approach themselves—being prepared to take a … Read more
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102 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
We accept that it is difficult to challenge a widely held scientific consensus.
We accept that it is difficult to challenge a widely held scientific consensus. But accountability in a democracy depends on elected decision-makers taking advice, but examining, questioning and challenging it before making their own decisions. We find it surprising that … Read more
Government Response
In future an approach of greater questioning and challenge should characterise the development of policy. Ministers should have the confidence to follow a scientific approach themselves—being prepared to take a … Read more
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103 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
In his evidence to the Science and Technology Committee during the early weeks of the...
In his evidence to the Science and Technology Committee during the early weeks of the pandemic, on 25 March, the Editor of the Lancet expressed concern that mathematical modelling was playing too influential a role in UK scientific advice.157 The … Read more
Government Response
In future an approach of greater questioning and challenge should characterise the development of policy. Ministers should have the confidence to follow a scientific approach themselves—being prepared to take a … Read more
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104 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Evidence to the Science and Technology Committee from other academic disciplines included scepticism of the...
Evidence to the Science and Technology Committee from other academic disciplines included scepticism of the weight being placed on mathematical models during the pandemic. For example Professor Sir John Kay, Economist and Fellow in Economics, St 152 Correspondence from Rt … Read more
Government Response
In future an approach of greater questioning and challenge should characterise the development of policy. Ministers should have the confidence to follow a scientific approach themselves—being prepared to take a … Read more
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105 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Sir John also highlighted concerns about how different academic disciplines did not collaborate sufficiently on...
Sir John also highlighted concerns about how different academic disciplines did not collaborate sufficiently on models.164 Professor James Poterba, Mitsui Professor of Economics, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, explained to the Science and Technology Committee that the consequence of this was … Read more
Government Response
In future an approach of greater questioning and challenge should characterise the development of policy. Ministers should have the confidence to follow a scientific approach themselves—being prepared to take a … Read more
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106 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Professor Chris Whitty noted that he preferred advice to be given on the basis of...
Professor Chris Whitty noted that he preferred advice to be given on the basis of observed data, telling the Science and Technology Committee in November 2020: “It is important to say that a lot of the advice that I have … Read more
Government Response
In future an approach of greater questioning and challenge should characterise the development of policy. Ministers should have the confidence to follow a scientific approach themselves—being prepared to take a … Read more
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107 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Yet despite this, throughout the pandemic, detailed modelled projections have assumed a great prominence and...
Yet despite this, throughout the pandemic, detailed modelled projections have assumed a great prominence and have evidently had great influence on Government decisions. Indeed, the publication of the Imperial study of 16 March, is often cited as one of the … Read more
Government Response
In future an approach of greater questioning and challenge should characterise the development of policy. Ministers should have the confidence to follow a scientific approach themselves—being prepared to take a … Read more
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108 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Another potential reason for the late lockdown was the behavioural advice that was being tendered...
Another potential reason for the late lockdown was the behavioural advice that was being tendered to the Government. Behavioural advice is tendered to the Government through SAGE’s sub-group, the Scientific Pandemic Insights Group on Behaviours (SPI- B).168 SPI-B’s first publicly … Read more
Government Response
In future an approach of greater questioning and challenge should characterise the development of policy. Ministers should have the confidence to follow a scientific approach themselves—being prepared to take a … Read more
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109 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The initial action plan did not consider the possibility of ceasing all non-essential contact.
The initial action plan did not consider the possibility of ceasing all non-essential contact. Dominic Cummings told us that the idea of behavioural fatigue was a part of “false groupthink”: One of the critical things that was completely wrong in … Read more
Government Response
In future an approach of greater questioning and challenge should characterise the development of policy. Ministers should have the confidence to follow a scientific approach themselves—being prepared to take a … Read more
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110 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
It transpired that the UK public were very compliant with the eventual lockdown measures.175 Professor...
It transpired that the UK public were very compliant with the eventual lockdown measures.175 Professor Chris Whitty also said in November 2020: Across the board, my reflection is that the great majority of people—and this is reflected in all the … Read more
Government Response
In future an approach of greater questioning and challenge should characterise the development of policy. Ministers should have the confidence to follow a scientific approach themselves—being prepared to take a … Read more
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111 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The restrictions eventually imposed on the UK public because of the pandemic were unprecedented.
The restrictions eventually imposed on the UK public because of the pandemic were unprecedented. Even in wartime there had been no equivalent of the order to make it a criminal offence for people to meet each other and to remain … Read more
Government Response
In future an approach of greater questioning and challenge should characterise the development of policy. Ministers should have the confidence to follow a scientific approach themselves—being prepared to take a … Read more
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112 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
We have referred to early evidence from Dr Richard Horton, the Editor of the Lancet,...
We have referred to early evidence from Dr Richard Horton, the Editor of the Lancet, who was concerned that SAGE in its early months was taking insufficient account of international perspectives. At the time he gave his evidence, Dr Horton, … Read more
Government Response
In future an approach of greater questioning and challenge should characterise the development of policy. Ministers should have the confidence to follow a scientific approach themselves—being prepared to take a … Read more
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113 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
It is a characteristic of the best UK scientific institutions, and the people that work...
It is a characteristic of the best UK scientific institutions, and the people that work in them, that much of their research involves extensive international collaboration. However, for a virus that has affected every country in the world and which … Read more
Government Response
In future an approach of greater questioning and challenge should characterise the development of policy. Ministers should have the confidence to follow a scientific approach themselves—being prepared to take a … Read more
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114 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Dr Horton expressed concerns about the evidence base that SAGE in its early meetings drew...
Dr Horton expressed concerns about the evidence base that SAGE in its early meetings drew upon. Referring to scientists in East Asia, Dr Horton told the Science and Technology Committee: If I had been Chair of SAGE, I would have … Read more
Government Response
In future an approach of greater questioning and challenge should characterise the development of policy. Ministers should have the confidence to follow a scientific approach themselves—being prepared to take a … Read more
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115 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Although introduced several weeks after it should have been, the national lockdown brought in on...
Although introduced several weeks after it should have been, the national lockdown brought in on 23 March succeeded in reducing the incidence of covid across the country, so that from May 2020 national restrictions were eased. However, tougher restrictions were … Read more
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116 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The Government sought to agree with local leaders the package of restrictions that would apply...
The Government sought to agree with local leaders the package of restrictions that would apply in particular areas. However, the consequence of this approach led to political differences between national government and some local leaders as to what measures were … Read more
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117 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
By mid-September 2020, case rates were rising across the country, but there were significant local...
By mid-September 2020, case rates were rising across the country, but there were significant local differences. For example, on 30 September, the incidence of covid ranged from 607 per 100,000 population per week in East Sussex, to 4,318 in Knowsley.182 … Read more
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118 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
As we discuss in Chapter 4, there had been hopes that by Autumn 2020 an...
As we discuss in Chapter 4, there had been hopes that by Autumn 2020 an effective test, trace and isolate system—promised to be “world-beating”—would allow covid levels to be contained without recourse to extensive lockdown restrictions. Indeed the business case … Read more
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119 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The experience of the tiered system during the autumn was, however, unsatisfactory.
The experience of the tiered system during the autumn was, however, unsatisfactory. In the absence of effective contact tracing, the regional restrictions proved not to be anywhere near watertight enough to prevent infections spreading, compounded by delays in getting test … Read more
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120 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Professor Dame Angela McLean, Chief Scientific Adviser to the Ministry of Defence and a participant...
Professor Dame Angela McLean, Chief Scientific Adviser to the Ministry of Defence and a participant of SAGE, told the Science and Technology Committee in February 2021 that the tier system waited until prevalence was high before any action was taken, … Read more
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121 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Another problem with the tiered restrictions that were implemented during the autumn of 2020 was...
Another problem with the tiered restrictions that were implemented during the autumn of 2020 was that it was not fully clear what criteria would cause a particular area to be placed in a given tier, nor what would be required … Read more
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122 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
There has also been a lack of transparency over the scientific case for particular interventions.
There has also been a lack of transparency over the scientific case for particular interventions. After the initial, broad lockdown had been lifted specific prohibitions were introduced in later months. Such restrictions were typically justified by Ministers as 186 Q164 … Read more
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123 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Scientific advice was cited in justification for increasingly fine-grained restrictions— with which some of the...
Scientific advice was cited in justification for increasingly fine-grained restrictions— with which some of the Government’s scientific advisers were often visibly uncomfortable. When Sir Patrick Vallance, the Government Chief Scientific Adviser, was asked on 3 November why children’s outdoor sport … Read more
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124 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The two months between September 2020 and 31 October 2020 were an unsatisfactory period in...
The two months between September 2020 and 31 October 2020 were an unsatisfactory period in which the comparative simplicity of the rules in place from the evening of 23 March onwards were replaced by a complex, inconsistent, shifting and scientifically … Read more
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125 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Throughout September and October 2020, case numbers and hospitalisations continued to rise nationwide.
Throughout September and October 2020, case numbers and hospitalisations continued to rise nationwide. As the virus started to spread and a second wave appeared to have started, SAGE advised on 21 September 2020 that a two week ‘circuit breaker’, a … Read more
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126 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
In evidence to the Science and Technology Committee in November 2020, Sir Patrick Vallance added...
In evidence to the Science and Technology Committee in November 2020, Sir Patrick Vallance added that the intention of the circuit breaker was to enable the test and trace system—which in September had once again been found to be inadequate—to … Read more
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127 Recommendation
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Dominic Cummings told our inquiry that Downing Street held a meeting on 20 September 2020...
Dominic Cummings told our inquiry that Downing Street held a meeting on 20 September 2020 for the Prime Minister to hear both sides of the argument. He explained that Professor John Edmunds put forward the view that the Government should … Read more
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128 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
It is impossible to know whether a circuit breaker would have had a material effect...
It is impossible to know whether a circuit breaker would have had a material effect in preventing a second lockdown, given that such an approach was pursued in Wales, which still ended up having further restrictions in December 2020. But … Read more
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129 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
On 31 October 2020, the Prime Minister announced tougher nationwide restrictions in England—the second lockdown.200...
On 31 October 2020, the Prime Minister announced tougher nationwide restrictions in England—the second lockdown.200 The UK public were once again told to “stay at 194 GOV.UK, SAGE 59, 24 September 2020 195 Oral evidence taken before the Science and … Read more
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130 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The circumstances of the lockdown announced on 31 October were controversial.
The circumstances of the lockdown announced on 31 October were controversial. A Downing Street press conference had been hastily convened on the Saturday evening following leak to newspapers of the Government’s likely intention to bring in a further lockdown. Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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131 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
At the press conference, modelling projections were presented which warned of a risk to the...
At the press conference, modelling projections were presented which warned of a risk to the ability of the NHS to cope with likely hospital admissions unless the proposed measures were taken. Sir Patrick Vallance in evidence to the Science and … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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132 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
However, it emerged during the following days that the modelling that was presented at the...
However, it emerged during the following days that the modelling that was presented at the press conference was based on data that had been superseded by more up-to-date information. It also emerged that the forecasts did not include the impact … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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133 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Whilst it is clear the first lockdown was called too late, it is not however...
Whilst it is clear the first lockdown was called too late, it is not however possible to make such a clear cut judgement about the second lockdown from 31 October for two reasons. First, since the advice was taken and … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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134 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Following genomic sequencing, PHE found that the Alpha variant first appeared in Kent in September...
Following genomic sequencing, PHE found that the Alpha variant first appeared in Kent in September 2020 and rapidly became the dominant variant in Kent, and subsequently, the rest of England.207 The new variant was first brought to the attention of … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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135 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Leading virologists who gave evidence to the Science and Technology Committee on 23 December said...
Leading virologists who gave evidence to the Science and Technology Committee on 23 December said that the Government had acted quickly in response to the new evidence. For example, Professor Peter Horby, Chair of the New and Emerging Respiratory Virus … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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136 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The second wave of the pandemic was more numerous in terms of hospital admissions and...
The second wave of the pandemic was more numerous in terms of hospital admissions and deaths than the first wave. It peaked on 8 January 2021 with 68,053 new infections per day reported in the UK,214 and on 20 January … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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137 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Due to the much higher transmissibility of the Alpha variant, in the absence of a...
Due to the much higher transmissibility of the Alpha variant, in the absence of a test, trace and isolate system capable of arresting the spread of the virus, a circuit-breaker in September and an earlier, more stringent lockdown, would likely … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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138 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
But these decisions were taken before the existence of the Alpha variant was known.
But these decisions were taken before the existence of the Alpha variant was known. So the justification for an earlier lockdown is greatly influenced by information that was not available at the time. It serves to illustrate that, in a … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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139 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Several public health experts stressed to us that an effective messaging and communications strategy was...
Several public health experts stressed to us that an effective messaging and communications strategy was a crucial part of the response to a pandemic. In July 2020, Sir Paul Nurse argued in evidence to the Health and Social Care Committee … Read more
Government Response
The government accepts this recommendation. The government recognises that the pandemic response requires a multifaceted communication strategy, capable of adapting to and addressing a variety of concerns. There were many … Read more
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140 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
At the outset of the pandemic, the Prime Minister’s “stay at home” order was accompanied...
At the outset of the pandemic, the Prime Minister’s “stay at home” order was accompanied by a public messaging campaign that clearly instructed the public to “stay home, protect the NHS, save lives”. This message was driven by regular televised … Read more
Government Response
The government accepts this recommendation. The government recognises that the pandemic response requires a multifaceted communication strategy, capable of adapting to and addressing a variety of concerns. There were many … Read more
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141 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Much of the evidence to our inquiry has acknowledged that this “Stay at Home” slogan...
Much of the evidence to our inquiry has acknowledged that this “Stay at Home” slogan was successful in fostering sufficient levels of awareness and understanding among the public. For example, during this period there was a marked fall in the … Read more
Government Response
The government accepts this recommendation. The government recognises that the pandemic response requires a multifaceted communication strategy, capable of adapting to and addressing a variety of concerns. There were many … Read more
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142 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Evidence from University College London (UCL) showed that during the first lockdown, the simplicity and...
Evidence from University College London (UCL) showed that during the first lockdown, the simplicity and clarity of public health messaging did indeed translate into high levels of compliance with the stay at home order. According to UCL, during this period … Read more
Government Response
The government accepts this recommendation. The government recognises that the pandemic response requires a multifaceted communication strategy, capable of adapting to and addressing a variety of concerns. There were many … Read more
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143 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Although the communications strategy in the initial phase of the pandemic was broadly successful, it...
Although the communications strategy in the initial phase of the pandemic was broadly successful, it is worth noting that there was some confusion over who the stay at home order applied to, and there was criticism of the Government’s decision … Read more
Government Response
The government accepts this recommendation. The government recognises that the pandemic response requires a multifaceted communication strategy, capable of adapting to and addressing a variety of concerns. There were many … Read more
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144 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
On 10 May 2020, the Government announced that society would begin to reopen in England...
On 10 May 2020, the Government announced that society would begin to reopen in England through a staged series of lockdown easing measures.226 From this point, there were divergent approaches to messaging across the four nations of the UK. To … Read more
Government Response
The government accepts this recommendation. The government recognises that the pandemic response requires a multifaceted communication strategy, capable of adapting to and addressing a variety of concerns. There were many … Read more
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145 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Written evidence to our inquiry suggested that the loss of consistency across the four nations...
Written evidence to our inquiry suggested that the loss of consistency across the four nations led to confusion, with “messages from numerous national bodies that, at times, appeared to contradict each other”.229 We heard that at this stage, these contradicting … Read more
Government Response
As the report points out, public health communications are key to the public’s understanding of and compliance with non-pharmaceutical interventions. Messaging from the government early in the pandemic was strong, … Read more
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146 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The three-tier approach to local lockdown restrictions in England (see paragraph 117) introduced more complexity...
The three-tier approach to local lockdown restrictions in England (see paragraph 117) introduced more complexity to Government messaging which was, understandably different in different parts of the country.231 It was therefore unsurprising that this more differentiated messaging strategy meant that … Read more
Government Response
As the report points out, public health communications are key to the public’s understanding of and compliance with non-pharmaceutical interventions. Messaging from the government early in the pandemic was strong, … Read more
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147 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Written evidence suggested that the inconsistency in Government messaging after the first wave of the...
Written evidence suggested that the inconsistency in Government messaging after the first wave of the pandemic was also damaging to public trust in official information.233 Analysis submitted by Leeds Beckett University showed that most members of the public did not … Read more
Government Response
As the report points out, public health communications are key to the public’s understanding of and compliance with non-pharmaceutical interventions. Messaging from the government early in the pandemic was strong, … Read more
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148 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Lower levels of public trust and understanding of the regulations also created a gap into...
Lower levels of public trust and understanding of the regulations also created a gap into which misinformation was able to spread. Research conducted by Ofcom in the first six weeks of the pandemic found that 47% of respondents said they … Read more
Government Response
As the report points out, public health communications are key to the public’s understanding of and compliance with non-pharmaceutical interventions. Messaging from the government early in the pandemic was strong, … Read more
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149 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The covid pandemic is a global emergency that is not yet over.
The covid pandemic is a global emergency that is not yet over. While the UK’s trajectory may have changed in recent months with vaccines, the vast majority of the world is still grappling with the disease. It would be prudent … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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150 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
One of the key ways to measure a country’s success in fighting covid-19 is to...
One of the key ways to measure a country’s success in fighting covid-19 is to measure deaths from covid-19. However, countries across the world measure deaths in different ways. The UK has reported covid deaths as those who died within … Read more
Government Response
The government, via the World Health Organisation, should make the case for an international standard of reporting COVID-19 deaths and a framework for reporting disease related deaths for future pandemics. Read more
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151 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
There are also other factors to be considered.
There are also other factors to be considered. Each country has a unique set of characteristics which might have contributed to its health related covid-19 outcomes. For example, the UK has the tenth-highest rate of obesity in the world,241 which … Read more
Government Response
The government recognises and has responded to the impact of the pandemic on the social care sector. The Prime Minister’s announcement of the ‘Build Back Better’ plan for health and … Read more
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152 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
During the first three months of the covid pandemic, the UK followed the wrong policy...
During the first three months of the covid pandemic, the UK followed the wrong policy in its use of non-pharmaceutical interventions. When the UK moved from the ‘contain’ to ‘delay’ stage, there was a policy of seeking to only moderate … Read more
Government Response
Non-pharmaceutical interventions have been a key element of the government’s response to COVID-19. At the outbreak of the pandemic, the government carefully monitored the data, and our decision-making has always … Read more
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153 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The flattening the curve policy was implemented by introducing new restrictions only gradually and slowly,...
The flattening the curve policy was implemented by introducing new restrictions only gradually and slowly, acting as if the spread of the virus were susceptible to calibrated control. Modelling at the time suggested that to suppress the spread of covid-19 … Read more
Government Response
Non-pharmaceutical interventions have been a key element of the government’s response to COVID-19. At the outbreak of the pandemic, the government carefully monitored the data, and our decision-making has always … Read more
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154 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
There are several possible explanations for what was a significant error in policy and advice...
There are several possible explanations for what was a significant error in policy and advice early in the pandemic. These include: • the lack of adequate data on the spread of covid-19, as a result of the inadequacy of the … Read more
Government Response
Non-pharmaceutical interventions have been a key element of the government’s response to COVID-19. At the outbreak of the pandemic, the government carefully monitored the data, and our decision-making has always … Read more
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155 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Science proceeds through challenge and disputation, and new theories are tested unflinchingly against evidence.
Science proceeds through challenge and disputation, and new theories are tested unflinchingly against evidence. Yet Ministers and other advisers reported that they felt it difficult to challenge the views of their official scientific advisers. Those in Government have a duty … Read more
Government Response
Non-pharmaceutical interventions have been a key element of the government’s response to COVID-19. At the outbreak of the pandemic, the government carefully monitored the data, and our decision-making has always … Read more
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156 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The second wave of covid infections, hospitalisations and deaths during the autumn and winter of...
The second wave of covid infections, hospitalisations and deaths during the autumn and winter of 2020/21 was significantly driven by the emergence of a new variant, known as the Kent or Alpha variant. It is likely that a “circuit break” … Read more
Government Response
Non-pharmaceutical interventions have been a key element of the government’s response to COVID-19. At the outbreak of the pandemic, the government carefully monitored the data, and our decision-making has always … Read more
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157 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Government public health communications are key to the public’s understanding of and compliance with non-pharmaceutical...
Government public health communications are key to the public’s understanding of and compliance with non-pharmaceutical interventions. Initial messaging from the Government early in the pandemic was strong, effective and undoubtedly contributed to the success of the first lockdown. After the … Read more
Government Response
As the report points out, public health communications are key to the public’s understanding of and compliance with non-pharmaceutical interventions. Messaging from the government early in the pandemic was strong, … Read more
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158 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
In the early days of a crisis, scientific advice may be necessarily uncertain: data may...
In the early days of a crisis, scientific advice may be necessarily uncertain: data may be unavailable, knowledge limited and time may be required for analysis to be conducted. In these circumstances it may be appropriate to act quickly, on … Read more
Government Response
In the early days of a crisis, scientific advice may be necessarily uncertain: data may be unavailable, knowledge limited and time may be required for analysis to be conducted. In … Read more
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159 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
In future an approach of greater questioning and challenge should characterise the development of policy.
In future an approach of greater questioning and challenge should characterise the development of policy. Ministers should have the confidence to follow a scientific approach themselves—being prepared to take a more robust approach to questioning and challenging the advice given. … Read more
Government Response
In future an approach of greater questioning and challenge should characterise the development of policy. Ministers should have the confidence to follow a scientific approach themselves—being prepared to take a … Read more
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160 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
In bringing together many of the UK’s most accomplished scientists, SAGE became a very UK...
In bringing together many of the UK’s most accomplished scientists, SAGE became a very UK body. In future, it should include more representation and a wider range of disciplines, from other countries, especially those which have experienced, or are experiencing, … Read more
Government Response
In bringing together many of the UK’s most accomplished scientists, SAGE became a very UK body. In future, it should include more representation and a wider range of disciplines, from … Read more
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161 Recommendation
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
In a pandemic, the scientific advice from the SAGE co-chairs to the Government should be...
In a pandemic, the scientific advice from the SAGE co-chairs to the Government should be published within 24 hours of it being given, or the policy being decided, whichever is the later, to ensure the opportunity for rapid scientific challenge … Read more
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162 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The Government, via the World Health Organisation, should make the case for an international standard...
The Government, via the World Health Organisation, should make the case for an international standard of reporting covid-19 deaths and a framework for reporting disease related deaths for future pandemics. 60 Coronavirus: lessons learned to date 4 Testing and contact … Read more
Government Response
The government, via the World Health Organisation, should make the case for an international standard of reporting COVID-19 deaths and a framework for reporting disease related deaths for future pandemics. Read more
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163 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
While, as we will illustrate in Chapter 7, the UK’s vaccination programme has been a...
While, as we will illustrate in Chapter 7, the UK’s vaccination programme has been a national success, the record during the pandemic of the test, trace and isolate programme is more mixed. The slow, uncertain, and often chaotic performance of … Read more
Government Response
In respect of test, trace and isolate, the government will build on the legacy of the response to this pandemic. As the government has set out in the ‘Living with … Read more
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164 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
This Chapter looks at a number of different facets of the test, trace and isolate...
This Chapter looks at a number of different facets of the test, trace and isolate system— though they are illustrative rather than exhaustive. While it describes an unsatisfactory history, there are signs that the UK has now arrived at a … Read more
Government Response
In respect of test, trace and isolate, the government will build on the legacy of the response to this pandemic. As the government has set out in the ‘Living with … Read more
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165 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
In this Chapter we consider in particular: • the initial testing capacity available; • the...
In this Chapter we consider in particular: • the initial testing capacity available; • the decision to abandon testing in the community; • the 100,000 tests a day target introduced by the then Secretary of State; • the centralisation of … Read more
Government Response
In respect of test, trace and isolate, the government will build on the legacy of the response to this pandemic. As the government has set out in the ‘Living with … Read more
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166 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
During the early days of the pandemic, the Government believed—and told the public—that testing for...
During the early days of the pandemic, the Government believed—and told the public—that testing for covid-19 was a field in which the UK had a leading position. This assessment was shared, and possibly arose out of, the views of scientific … Read more
Government Response
In respect of test, trace and isolate, the government will build on the legacy of the response to this pandemic. As the government has set out in the ‘Living with … Read more
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167 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
SAGE minutes from 28 January 2020 recorded that notwithstanding the scientific lead in establishing a...
SAGE minutes from 28 January 2020 recorded that notwithstanding the scientific lead in establishing a test, PHE only had operational capacity to administer “400 to 500 tests per day” for the whole country.248 Other countries such as South Korea and … Read more
Government Response
In respect of test, trace and isolate, the government will build on the legacy of the response to this pandemic. As the government has set out in the ‘Living with … Read more
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168 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Professor Martin explained to us that early in the pandemic there were “very severe constraints...
Professor Martin explained to us that early in the pandemic there were “very severe constraints in equipment and consumables” which acted as a drag on testing capacity: Bear in mind that those were all new tests coming on stream at … Read more
Government Response
In respect of test, trace and isolate, the government will build on the legacy of the response to this pandemic. As the government has set out in the ‘Living with … Read more
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169 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
However, throughout the pandemic, our Committees have taken a great interest in what might be...
However, throughout the pandemic, our Committees have taken a great interest in what might be learned and applied from how other countries tackled the virus. In March 2020, the World Health Organisation recommended that nations “plan for surge capacity by … Read more
Government Response
In respect of test, trace and isolate, the government will build on the legacy of the response to this pandemic. As the government has set out in the ‘Living with … Read more
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170 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
In evidence to the Science and Technology Committee on 25 March 2020 Public Health England...
In evidence to the Science and Technology Committee on 25 March 2020 Public Health England claimed to have formally studied, but rejected, the South Korean approach.255 Despite repeated requests by the Committee no evidence of such an evaluation has ever … Read more
Government Response
In respect of test, trace and isolate, the government will build on the legacy of the response to this pandemic. As the government has set out in the ‘Living with … Read more
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171 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
As a result the UK squandered a leading position in diagnostics and converted it into...
As a result the UK squandered a leading position in diagnostics and converted it into one of permanent crisis. On 12 March, testing for covid-19 other than in hospitals was halted. In part this was because of the inadequacy of … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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172 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Shortly after this seminal failure, in mid-March 2020 responsibility for the testing strategy was taken...
Shortly after this seminal failure, in mid-March 2020 responsibility for the testing strategy was taken over by the Department of Health and Social Care from Public Health England.256 It was not until 18 May 2020, when the first wave of … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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173 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The consequences of this initial failure were profound.
The consequences of this initial failure were profound. Testing not only allowed individuals to be identified who had covid-19—and were infectious—but test results for an invisible virus were the only way to be able to accurately monitor the incidence and … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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174 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
For a country with a world-class expertise in data analysis, to face the biggest health...
For a country with a world-class expertise in data analysis, to face the biggest health crisis in a hundred years with virtually no data to analyse was an almost unimaginable setback. The reasons for this initial inadequacy to translate testing … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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175 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
We also consider that the Government’s scientific advisers were too passive in accepting assurances that...
We also consider that the Government’s scientific advisers were too passive in accepting assurances that the clinical operational capacity of Public Health England could not be changed. Even in March 2020, Professor Neil Ferguson explained that “much 254 Q129 255 … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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176 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
It is clear that there should have been more challenge to Public Health England to...
It is clear that there should have been more challenge to Public Health England to increase testing capacity from the outset by Ministers, scientific advisers and the Department of Health and Social Care rather than accepting it as a fait … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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177 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
As noted earlier, the failure to have enough testing capacity in the early weeks of...
As noted earlier, the failure to have enough testing capacity in the early weeks of the pandemic contributed to a lack of knowledge as to how the infection was spreading in the country. Speaking to us in November 2020, Professor … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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178 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The lack of data resulting from suspending community testing also affected the UK’s understanding of...
The lack of data resulting from suspending community testing also affected the UK’s understanding of the disease at that critical time. Professor Neil Ferguson explained to the Science and Technology Committee in June 2020 that low testing capacity meant it … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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179 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Professor Chris Whitty told the Health and Social Care Committee in July 2020 that the...
Professor Chris Whitty told the Health and Social Care Committee in July 2020 that the lack of testing capacity available at the beginning of the pandemic meant that the Government had to focus resources very closely on the hospital sector, … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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180 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The lack of available testing for social care was particularly damaging, as we discuss in...
The lack of available testing for social care was particularly damaging, as we discuss in more detail later in this Report. Crucially, it was not until mid-April that covid-19 testing was made a requirement for people discharged from hospital to … Read more
Government Response
The government recognises and has responded to the impact of the pandemic on the social care sector. The Prime Minister’s announcement of the ‘Build Back Better’ plan for health and … Read more
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181 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The Health and Social Care Committee’s Reports on social care and the delivery of core...
The Health and Social Care Committee’s Reports on social care and the delivery of core NHS and care services during the pandemic also highlighted the impact of a lack of testing for social care staff in the initial wave of … Read more
Government Response
The government recognises and has responded to the impact of the pandemic on the social care sector. The Prime Minister’s announcement of the ‘Build Back Better’ plan for health and … Read more
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182 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Following the initial shortage of testing capacity and the slow increase in the availability of...
Following the initial shortage of testing capacity and the slow increase in the availability of tests during the critical first eight weeks of the pandemic, responsibility for the testing strategy was removed from Public Health England and vested in the … Read more
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183 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Subsequently, Dominic Cummings, in evidence to our inquiry, strongly criticised the then Secretary of State...
Subsequently, Dominic Cummings, in evidence to our inquiry, strongly criticised the then Secretary of State for naming this target, describing it as “an incredibly stupid thing to do.”272 However, Mr Hancock defended the target, saying to the Committees, “that 100,000 … Read more
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184 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Given the painfully slow increase in the availability of testing before April 2020, we consider...
Given the painfully slow increase in the availability of testing before April 2020, we consider that the impact of the Secretary of State’s target to have been an appropriate one to galvanise the rapid change the system needed. However, as … Read more
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185 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
As a result of the increase in testing capacity driven during April, the UK Government...
As a result of the increase in testing capacity driven during April, the UK Government finally resumed community testing on 18 May 2020, following an expansion of capacity, which included more than a doubling of the NHS and PHE laboratory … Read more
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186 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Evidence received by the Science and Technology Committee suggested that taking a centralised approach to...
Evidence received by the Science and Technology Committee suggested that taking a centralised approach to increasing testing capacity was appropriate as it might not have been practical to focus on boosting local-level capacity alone. For example, Dr Richard Harling, Director … Read more
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187 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
However, both our Committees heard that other resources could have been used more effectively in...
However, both our Committees heard that other resources could have been used more effectively in the initial expansion of testing capacity. Professor Sir Chris Ham explained that initially the Government was “very much focused on building capacity in the commercial … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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188 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Despite this, it appeared that there was a disconnect between the testing operation in the...
Despite this, it appeared that there was a disconnect between the testing operation in the Lighthouse Laboratories and NHS labs. For example, the Institute of Biomedical Science suggested that there was a “lack of integration and collaboration” between the laboratories … Read more
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189 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Throughout the last 18 months, the test and trace system has had labels applied that...
Throughout the last 18 months, the test and trace system has had labels applied that have been at variance with the reality. Ministers began by promising the test and trace system would be “world-beating” in May 2020 when the truth … Read more
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190 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
In May 2020 the label “NHS” was applied by the Department of Health and Social...
In May 2020 the label “NHS” was applied by the Department of Health and Social Care to the test and tracing system, despite it being operated outside the NHS. It was notable that in evidence to our inquiry, the then … Read more
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191 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The Government has pursued both mass antibody testing (to identify who previously had covid-19) and...
The Government has pursued both mass antibody testing (to identify who previously had covid-19) and mass diagnostic testing (to identify those currently infected) as means to return to normality. In its April 2020 testing strategy, the Government said it was … Read more
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192 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
That optimism does not appear to have been shared by scientists advising the Government, who...
That optimism does not appear to have been shared by scientists advising the Government, who struck a more cautious note. For example, at the same press conference Sir Patrick Vallance pointed out that the technologies still had to be trialled, … Read more
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193 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
As with other aspects of covid-19 testing, the Government has put a significant amount of...
As with other aspects of covid-19 testing, the Government has put a significant amount of public money towards mass testing. The NAO’s December 2020 report on test and trace indicated that (leading up to October) £2.9 billion had been earmarked … Read more
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194 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
During the summer of 2020, rates of covid infection declined markedly in most parts of...
During the summer of 2020, rates of covid infection declined markedly in most parts of the United Kingdom. Average hospitalisations from covid fell to 119 per day on 1 August 2020 compared to 3,000 per day in early April. Yet … Read more
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195 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Despite undergoing a large increase in testing capacity over the first lockdown period— reaching over...
Despite undergoing a large increase in testing capacity over the first lockdown period— reaching over 200,000 daily tests by the beginning of June 2020298—the test and trace service in England then struggled to keep up with a sharp increase in … Read more
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196 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
During September 2020, the Science and Technology Committee heard from Baroness Harding that NHS Test...
During September 2020, the Science and Technology Committee heard from Baroness Harding that NHS Test and Trace had “planned for a sizeable increase” but that she “[did] not think anybody was expecting” the level of demand experienced.301 She explained one … Read more
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197 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The NAO’s December 2020 report pointed out further that NHS Test and Trace was unable...
The NAO’s December 2020 report pointed out further that NHS Test and Trace was unable to meet demand due to insufficient laboratory capacity as a result of: • delays in getting new laboratories up and running; • delays in delivering … Read more
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198 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Two months earlier, in July 2020, the Government Chief Scientific Adviser, Sir Patrick Vallance, told...
Two months earlier, in July 2020, the Government Chief Scientific Adviser, Sir Patrick Vallance, told the Science and Technology Committee that extra testing capacity would be “essential” ahead of schools reopening.306 However, he suggested that the Government did 298 GOV.UK, … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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199 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Overall, the National Audit Office concluded that NHS Test and Trace “did not plan for...
Overall, the National Audit Office concluded that NHS Test and Trace “did not plan for a sharp rise in testing demand in early Autumn [2020]” and was therefore “unprepared.”311 Professor Chris Whitty reiterated to both Committees in December 2020 that … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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200 Recommendation
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The failure of the test and trace system to rise to meet even the most...
The failure of the test and trace system to rise to meet even the most predictable of demands in Autumn 2020, especially given many weeks to prepare, suggests that lessons that were learnable during the pandemic were not applied. An … Read more
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1 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The UK has established procedures and structures to prepare for the nation’s major future risks,...
The UK has established procedures and structures to prepare for the nation’s major future risks, including a National Risk Register, the Civil Contingencies Secretariat and the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE). However, the anticipated future risk of pandemic disease … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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2 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Previous exercises to test the national response capability, namely Exercises Cygnus and Winter Willow, did...
Previous exercises to test the national response capability, namely Exercises Cygnus and Winter Willow, did not squarely address a disease with the characteristics of covid-19. Nevertheless, some useful lessons were learned and applied, such as the drafting of legislative measures … Read more
Government Response
The government recognises that previous exercises such as Cygnus and Winter Willow have not squarely addressed a disease with the characteristics of COVID-19, and agrees that there are lessons to … Read more
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3 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The operation of COBR was not well-suited to the modern demands of a pandemic response.
The operation of COBR was not well-suited to the modern demands of a pandemic response. It is especially concerning that its culture of confidentiality was considered by some to be so unreliable that alternative meetings were arranged that could command … Read more
Government Response
The government does not accept this recommendation. COBR (now known as the Civil Contingencies Committee (CCC)) is the government’s crisis management forum and has served governments well. It is attended … Read more
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4 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The Civil Contingencies Secretariat did not have adequate resources to maintain a substantial standing capability...
The Civil Contingencies Secretariat did not have adequate resources to maintain a substantial standing capability to survey the development of potential threats, and it had a limited reach into the range of Government departments required to respond to a pandemic. … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. CCS sits at the heart of government and is responsible for coordinating the government’s response to emergencies. It works closely with other government departments, … Read more
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5 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Protocols to share data between public bodies involved in the response were too slow to...
Protocols to share data between public bodies involved in the response were too slow to establish and to become functional. This was especially true in the data flows from national to local government.
Government Response
The government accepts this recommendation.
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6 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The NHS responded quickly and strongly to the demands of the pandemic, but compared to...
The NHS responded quickly and strongly to the demands of the pandemic, but compared to other health systems it “runs hot”—with little spare capacity built in to cope with sudden and unexpected surges of demand such as in a pandemic.
Government Response
The experience of the demands placed on the NHS during the COVID-19 pandemic should lead to a more explicit, and monitored, surge capacity being part of the long term organisation … Read more
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7 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
A greater diversity of expertise and challenge—including from practitioners from other countries and a wider...
A greater diversity of expertise and challenge—including from practitioners from other countries and a wider range of disciplines—should be included in the framing of the National Risk Register and the plans that emanate from it. Plans for the future should … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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8 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
A standing capability should be established in Government, or reporting to it, to scan the...
A standing capability should be established in Government, or reporting to it, to scan the horizon for future threats, with adequate resource and counting on specialists with an independence from short-term political and administrative pressures. (Paragraph 65) Coronavirus: lessons learned … Read more
Government Response
The government does not accept this recommendation for the reason that there exist already a range of complementary standing capabilities that aim to identify and assess current and future malicious … Read more
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9 Recommendation
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The Government should ensure comprehensive plans are made for future risks and emergencies.
The Government should ensure comprehensive plans are made for future risks and emergencies. The UK should aim to be a world leader in co-ordinating international resilience planning, including reform of the World Health Organisation to ensure that it is able … Read more
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10 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The resourcing and capabilities of the Civil Contingencies Secretariat should be improved.
The resourcing and capabilities of the Civil Contingencies Secretariat should be improved. The Civil Contingencies Secretariat should be empowered to ‘stress test’ plans and to ensure that Departments are able to carry out a contingency plan if required. The details … Read more
Government Response
The government accepts this recommendation. During COVID-19, the CCS has been at the forefront of the government’s response. In the months ahead, as part of the wider work on resilience … Read more
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11 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Arrangements should be established and tested to allow immediate flows of data between bodies relevant...
Arrangements should be established and tested to allow immediate flows of data between bodies relevant to an emergency response with a mechanism to resolve immediately and decisively any disputes.
Government Response
The government accepts this recommendation. The government recognises the importance of data sharing across relevant bodies. Existing legislation, such as the Civil Contingencies Act 2004, provides a framework for emergency … Read more
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12 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The Armed Forces should have a more central and standing role in preparing for and...
The Armed Forces should have a more central and standing role in preparing for and responding to emergencies like pandemics, given the depth of capability and experience they have in planning, logistics and rapid mobilisation. The Civil Contingencies Secretariat should … Read more
Government Response
The government does not accept this recommendation because it considers that protocols currently in place are fit for purpose. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, MoD has provided an unprecedented level of … Read more
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13 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The Government and the NHS should consider establishing a volunteer reserve database so that volunteers...
The Government and the NHS should consider establishing a volunteer reserve database so that volunteers who have had appropriate checks can be rapidly called up and deployed in an emergency rather than needing to begin from scratch.
Government Response
The government and the NHS should consider establishing a volunteer reserve database so that volunteers who have had
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14 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The experience of the demands placed on the NHS during the covid-19 pandemic should lead...
The experience of the demands placed on the NHS during the covid-19 pandemic should lead to a more explicit, and monitored, surge capacity being part of the long term organisation and funding of the NHS.
Government Response
The experience of the demands placed on the NHS during the COVID-19 pandemic should lead to a more explicit, and monitored, surge capacity being part of the long term organisation … Read more
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15 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The NHS should develop and publish new protocols for infection prevention and control in pandemics...
The NHS should develop and publish new protocols for infection prevention and control in pandemics covering staffing, bed capacity and physical infrastructure. In developing these protocols the NHS should consider the importance of maintaining access for people accompanying some patients … Read more
Government Response
The government accepts this recommendation. The NHS is committed to developing and publishing new protocols for infection prevention and control in pandemics covering staffing, bed capacity and physical infrastructure. NHS … Read more
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16 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Comprehensive analysis should be carried out to assess the safety of running the NHS with...
Comprehensive analysis should be carried out to assess the safety of running the NHS with the limited latent capacity that it currently has, particularly in Intensive Care Units, critical care units and high dependency units.
Government Response
Comprehensive analysis should be carried out to assess the safety of running the NHS with the limited latent capacity that it currently has, particularly in Intensive Care Units, critical care … Read more
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17 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Building on the experience of staff working more flexibly during the pandemic and to enable...
Building on the experience of staff working more flexibly during the pandemic and to enable more flexible staffing in the NHS, NHS England and Health Education England should develop proposals to better enable NHS staff to change clinical specialty mid- … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. NHS England and Health Education England (HEE) are working together to create a more flexible workforce that can support a modern and sustainable health … Read more
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18 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
During the first three months of the covid pandemic, the UK followed the wrong policy...
During the first three months of the covid pandemic, the UK followed the wrong policy in its use of non-pharmaceutical interventions. When the UK moved from the ‘contain’ to ‘delay’ stage, there was a policy of seeking to only moderate … Read more
Government Response
Non-pharmaceutical interventions have been a key element of the government’s response to COVID-19. At the outbreak of the pandemic, the government carefully monitored the data, and our decision-making has always … Read more
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19 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The flattening the curve policy was implemented by introducing new restrictions only gradually and slowly,...
The flattening the curve policy was implemented by introducing new restrictions only gradually and slowly, acting as if the spread of the virus were susceptible to calibrated control. Modelling at the time suggested that to suppress the spread of covid-19 … Read more
Government Response
Non-pharmaceutical interventions have been a key element of the government’s response to COVID-19. At the outbreak of the pandemic, the government carefully monitored the data, and our decision-making has always … Read more
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20 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
There are several possible explanations for what was a significant error in policy and advice...
There are several possible explanations for what was a significant error in policy and advice early in the pandemic. These include: • the lack of adequate data on the spread of covid-19, as a result of the inadequacy of the … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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21 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Science proceeds through challenge and disputation, and new theories are tested unflinchingly against evidence.
Science proceeds through challenge and disputation, and new theories are tested unflinchingly against evidence. Yet Ministers and other advisers reported that they felt it difficult to challenge the views of their official scientific advisers. Those in Government have a duty … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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22 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The second wave of covid infections, hospitalisations and deaths during the autumn and winter of...
The second wave of covid infections, hospitalisations and deaths during the autumn and winter of 2020/21 was significantly driven by the emergence of a new variant, known as the Kent or Alpha variant. It is likely that a “circuit break” … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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23 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Government public health communications are key to the public’s understanding of and compliance with non-pharmaceutical...
Government public health communications are key to the public’s understanding of and compliance with non-pharmaceutical interventions. Initial messaging from the Government early in the pandemic was strong, effective and undoubtedly contributed to the success of the first lockdown. After the … Read more
Government Response
As the report points out, public health communications are key to the public’s understanding of and compliance with non-pharmaceutical interventions. Messaging from the government early in the pandemic was strong, … Read more
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24 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
In the early days of a crisis, scientific advice may be necessarily uncertain: data may...
In the early days of a crisis, scientific advice may be necessarily uncertain: data may be unavailable, knowledge limited and time may be required for analysis to be conducted. In these circumstances it may be appropriate to act quickly, on … Read more
Government Response
In the early days of a crisis, scientific advice may be necessarily uncertain: data may be unavailable, knowledge limited and time may be required for analysis to be conducted. In … Read more
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25 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
In future an approach of greater questioning and challenge should characterise the development of policy.
In future an approach of greater questioning and challenge should characterise the development of policy. Ministers should have the confidence to follow a scientific approach themselves—being prepared to take a more robust approach to questioning and challenging the advice given. … Read more
Government Response
In future an approach of greater questioning and challenge should characterise the development of policy. Ministers should have the confidence to follow a scientific approach themselves—being prepared to take a … Read more
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26 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
In bringing together many of the UK’s most accomplished scientists, SAGE became a very UK...
In bringing together many of the UK’s most accomplished scientists, SAGE became a very UK body. In future, it should include more representation and a wider range of disciplines, from other countries, especially those which have experienced, or are experiencing, … Read more
Government Response
In bringing together many of the UK’s most accomplished scientists, SAGE became a very UK body. In future, it should include more representation and a wider range of disciplines, from … Read more
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27 Recommendation
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
In a pandemic, the scientific advice from the SAGE co-chairs to the Government should be...
In a pandemic, the scientific advice from the SAGE co-chairs to the Government should be published within 24 hours of it being given, or the policy being decided, whichever is the later, to ensure the opportunity for rapid scientific challenge … Read more
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28 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The Government, via the World Health Organisation, should make the case for an international standard...
The Government, via the World Health Organisation, should make the case for an international standard of reporting covid-19 deaths and a framework for reporting disease related deaths for future pandemics. (Paragraph 162) Testing and contact tracing
Government Response
The government accepts this recommendation and recognises the importance of consistency in how deaths are reported across the world. The UK has consistently championed mortality surveillance through the WHO and … Read more
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29 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Despite being one of the first countries in the world to develop a test for...
Despite being one of the first countries in the world to develop a test for covid in January 2020, the United Kingdom failed to translate that scientific leadership into operational success in establishing an effective test and trace system during … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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30 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Testing capacity was treated too much as a parameter rather than a variable that could...
Testing capacity was treated too much as a parameter rather than a variable that could be changed by the Department of Health and Social Care and scientific advisers. What was being achieved in other countries, particularly East Asia, appeared to … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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31 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The resulting requirement to abandon testing people in the community during the critical early period...
The resulting requirement to abandon testing people in the community during the critical early period of the pandemic cost many lives for a number of reasons including because: a) many asymptomatic carriers were not tested and therefore identified and asked … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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32 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The new Test and Trace operation eventually established in May 2020 was a step in...
The new Test and Trace operation eventually established in May 2020 was a step in the right direction but set up much too late. Because of that delay there was huge pressure to get results quickly which meant that it … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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33 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Vast sums of taxpayers’ money were directed to Test and Trace, justified by the benefits...
Vast sums of taxpayers’ money were directed to Test and Trace, justified by the benefits of avoiding further lockdowns. But ultimately those lockdowns happened. Were it not for the success of the Vaccine Taskforce and the NHS vaccination programme, it … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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34 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
We recognise that the effectiveness of test and trace in reducing transmission is likely to...
We recognise that the effectiveness of test and trace in reducing transmission is likely to be reduced when the prevalence of the virus is high, as highlighted by Professor Whitty and others, but it is clear from the latest data … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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35 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The Test and Trace organisation has not, despite its branding, been run by the NHS,...
The Test and Trace organisation has not, despite its branding, been run by the NHS, and has seen senior executives brought in from external bodies for short term contracts which reduces the institutional learning, from what was an intense period, … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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36 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Partly because it was set up too late, NHS Test and Trace ultimately fell short...
Partly because it was set up too late, NHS Test and Trace ultimately fell short of the expectations set for it. It has failed to make a significant enough impact on the course of the pandemic to justify the level … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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37 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The National Audit Office has stated that “to achieve value for money NHST&T must be...
The National Audit Office has stated that “to achieve value for money NHST&T must be able to demonstrate both that the interventions it delivers are effective in achieving its objective, and that the mix of interventions is the most cost-effective … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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38 Recommendation
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Scientific excellence is not enough in test and trace programmes: the UK must develop greater...
Scientific excellence is not enough in test and trace programmes: the UK must develop greater operational competence in deployment. In particular, the Government must ensure that both the new UK Health Security Agency and local authorities have the capability and … Read more
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39 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Public Health England and its successor bodies, as well as Ministers and their scientific advisers,...
Public Health England and its successor bodies, as well as Ministers and their scientific advisers, should be more willing to study and emulate the practice of other countries with urgency and agility, especially during a crisis. A culture must be … Read more
Government Response
The government accepts this recommendation. Public Health England (PHE) and UKHSA have always strived to learn from other countries and organisations. Through close working with the World Health Organization (WHO), … Read more
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40 Recommendation
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Those responsible for future test and trace programmes should establish a culture and processes to...
Those responsible for future test and trace programmes should establish a culture and processes to learn rapidly from errors and to act to prevent them being repeated.
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41 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The reactive, short-term horizon of test and trace for much of the pandemic must be...
The reactive, short-term horizon of test and trace for much of the pandemic must be replaced by a capacity for anticipation and preparation—even during the course of an emergency.
Government Response
The reactive, short-term horizon of test and trace for much of the pandemic must be replaced by a capacity for anticipation and preparation—even during the course of an emergency.
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42 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The organisation of the bodies responsible for testing and tracing should be open and transparent...
The organisation of the bodies responsible for testing and tracing should be open and transparent both about their operations and the basis of their decisions. (Paragraph 245) Social care
Government Response
The organisation of the bodies responsible for testing and tracing should be open and transparent both about their operations and the basis of their decisions.
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43 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The covid-19 pandemic has put massive strain on a social care sector already under huge...
The covid-19 pandemic has put massive strain on a social care sector already under huge pressure, which has a particular focus on caring for elderly people who have been at the greatest risk of death from covid.
Government Response
The government recognises and has responded to the impact of the pandemic on the social care sector. The Prime Minister’s announcement of the ‘Build Back Better’ plan for health and … Read more
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44 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Social care had a less prominent voice in Government during the early stages of the...
Social care had a less prominent voice in Government during the early stages of the pandemic than did the NHS.
Government Response
The government recognises and has responded to the impact of the pandemic on the social care sector. The Prime Minister’s announcement of the ‘Build Back Better’ plan for health and … Read more
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45 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The discharge of elderly people from NHS hospitals into care homes without having been tested...
The discharge of elderly people from NHS hospitals into care homes without having been tested at the beginning of the pandemic—while understandable as the NHS prepared to accept a surge of covid patients—had the unintended consequence of contributing to the … Read more
Government Response
The government recognises and has responded to the impact of the pandemic on the social care sector. The Prime Minister’s announcement of the ‘Build Back Better’ plan for health and … Read more
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46 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Staff shortages, the lack of testing, difficulties in obtaining PPE and the design of care...
Staff shortages, the lack of testing, difficulties in obtaining PPE and the design of care settings to enable communal living hampered isolation and infection control and the ability to keep covid at bay. Social care staff in care homes and … Read more
Government Response
The government recognises and has responded to the impact of the pandemic on the social care sector. The Prime Minister’s announcement of the ‘Build Back Better’ plan for health and … Read more
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47 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Many of these pressures on the social care sector—such as funding and workforce— are longstanding...
Many of these pressures on the social care sector—such as funding and workforce— are longstanding and must be resolved urgently. Pressures on the social care workforce are likely to be compounded this autumn by the mandate that people working in … Read more
Government Response
The government recognises and has responded to the impact of the pandemic on the social care sector. The Prime Minister’s announcement of the ‘Build Back Better’ plan for health and … Read more
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48 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Planning for future pandemics should have a more developed and explicit consideration of the intense...
Planning for future pandemics should have a more developed and explicit consideration of the intense interaction between the NHS and social care. The prominence of social care within the Department of Health and Social Care should be enhanced and Ministers … Read more
Government Response
The government accepts this recommendation.
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49 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Long term reform of social care is overdue and should be pursued as a matter...
Long term reform of social care is overdue and should be pursued as a matter of urgency. The Government’s recent announcement on the future of social care is welcome, but the long-term future of the sector remains unresolved. We endorse … Read more
Government Response
The government accepts this recommendation.
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50 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
We endorse the Health and Social Care Committee’s call for additional resources to be directed...
We endorse the Health and Social Care Committee’s call for additional resources to be directed to social care. That Committee has made the case for an increase of £7 billion a year by 2023/4. We note that despite the Government’s … Read more
Government Response
The government accepts this recommendation.
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51 Recommendation
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The Government should review the provision of infection prevention and control measures, including infection prevention...
The Government should review the provision of infection prevention and control measures, including infection prevention and control nurses, to social care and ensure that social care providers, particularly care homes, are able to conduct regular pandemic preparedness drills. The Government … Read more
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52 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The impact of covid-19 has been uneven across the population, with some sections of society...
The impact of covid-19 has been uneven across the population, with some sections of society suffering significantly higher illness and deaths than the nation as a whole.
Government Response
The government accepts this recommendation.
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53 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
During the initial phase of the pandemic Black, Asian and minority ethnic people experienced significantly...
During the initial phase of the pandemic Black, Asian and minority ethnic people experienced significantly higher levels of severe illness and death from covid than was typical the population as a whole. Research conducted so far suggests that the drivers … Read more
Government Response
The government accepts this recommendation.
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54 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Staff from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds are crucial to the NHS and care...
Staff from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds are crucial to the NHS and care sectors. The covid-19 pandemic has brought the experiences of these staff into sharp focus. It is telling that the first ten NHS staff to die … Read more
Government Response
The government accepts this recommendation.
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55 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
People with learning disabilities have experienced significantly higher death rates from covid-19 than the country...
People with learning disabilities have experienced significantly higher death rates from covid-19 than the country as a whole. Deaths have been especially high among younger adults with learning disabilities. Initial research suggests that people with learning disabilities entered the pandemic … Read more
Government Response
The government accepts this recommendation.
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56 Conclusion
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Although there was never national NHS guidance to apply “Do not attempt CPR” (DNACPR) notices...
Although there was never national NHS guidance to apply “Do not attempt CPR” (DNACPR) notices to people with learning disabilities, there have been widespread concerns that there were cases in which they have been issued inappropriately during the pandemic. Read more
Government Response
The government accepts this recommendation and recognises the importance of considering the specific needs of people with a learning disability, autistic people, and their families in health emergencies. Throughout the … Read more
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57 Recommendation
Sixth Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The Government should ensure its ‘levelling up’ agenda includes specific policies to reduce health inequalities,...
The Government should ensure its ‘levelling up’ agenda includes specific policies to reduce health inequalities, with a particular focus on ensuring that certain groups, including people from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds, do not continue to face unequal health … Read more
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58 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The UK has established procedures and structures to prepare for the nation’s major future risks,...
The UK has established procedures and structures to prepare for the nation’s major future risks, including a National Risk Register, the Civil Contingencies Secretariat and the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE). However, the anticipated future risk of pandemic disease … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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59 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Previous exercises to test the national response capability, namely Exercises Cygnus and Winter Willow, did...
Previous exercises to test the national response capability, namely Exercises Cygnus and Winter Willow, did not squarely address a disease with the characteristics of covid-19. Nevertheless, some useful lessons were learned and applied, such as the drafting of legislative measures … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. As highlighted by the Committees, previous exercises such as Cygnus and Winter Willow did not squarely address a disease with the characteristics of COVID-19. … Read more
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60 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The operation of COBR was not well-suited to the modern demands of a pandemic response.
The operation of COBR was not well-suited to the modern demands of a pandemic response. It is especially concerning that its culture of confidentiality was considered by some to be so unreliable that alternative meetings were arranged that could command … Read more
Government Response
The government does not accept this recommendation. The government disagrees with the assessment that COBR was not well-suited to the modern demands of a pandemic response, and notes that there … Read more
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61 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The Civil Contingencies Secretariat did not have adequate resources to maintain a substantial standing capability...
The Civil Contingencies Secretariat did not have adequate resources to maintain a substantial standing capability to survey the development of potential threats, and it had a limited reach into the range of Government departments required to respond to a pandemic. … Read more
Government Response
The government does not accept this recommendation for the reason that there exist already a range of complementary standing capabilities that aim to identify and assess current and future malicious … Read more
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62 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Protocols to share data between public bodies involved in the response were too slow to...
Protocols to share data between public bodies involved in the response were too slow to establish and to become functional. This was especially true in the data flows from national to local government.
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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63 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The NHS responded quickly and strongly to the demands of the pandemic, but compared to...
The NHS responded quickly and strongly to the demands of the pandemic, but compared to other health systems it “runs hot”—with little spare capacity built in to cope with sudden and unexpected surges of demand such as in a pandemic. … Read more
Government Response
The experience of the demands placed on the NHS during the COVID-19 pandemic should lead to a more explicit, and monitored, surge capacity being part of the long term organisation … Read more
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64 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
A greater diversity of expertise and challenge—including from practitioners from other countries and a wider...
A greater diversity of expertise and challenge—including from practitioners from other countries and a wider range of disciplines—should be included in the framing of the National Risk Register and the plans that emanate from it. Plans for the future should … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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65 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
A standing capability should be established in Government, or reporting to it, to scan the...
A standing capability should be established in Government, or reporting to it, to scan the horizon for future threats, with adequate resource and counting on specialists with an independence from short-term political and administrative pressures.
Government Response
The government does not accept this recommendation for the reason that there exist already a range of complementary standing capabilities that aim to identify and assess current and future malicious … Read more
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66 Recommendation
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The Government should ensure comprehensive plans are made for future risks and emergencies.
The Government should ensure comprehensive plans are made for future risks and emergencies. The UK should aim to be a world leader in co-ordinating international resilience planning, including reform of the World Health Organisation to ensure that it is able … Read more
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67 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The resourcing and capabilities of the Civil Contingencies Secretariat should be improved.
The resourcing and capabilities of the Civil Contingencies Secretariat should be improved. The Civil Contingencies Secretariat should be empowered to ‘stress test’ plans and to ensure that Departments are able to carry out a contingency plan if required. The details … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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68 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Arrangements should be established and tested to allow immediate flows of data between bodies relevant...
Arrangements should be established and tested to allow immediate flows of data between bodies relevant to an emergency response with a mechanism to resolve immediately and decisively any disputes.
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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69 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The Armed Forces should have a more central and standing role in preparing for and...
The Armed Forces should have a more central and standing role in preparing for and responding to emergencies like pandemics, given the depth of capability and experience they have in planning, logistics and rapid mobilisation. The Civil Contingencies Secretariat should … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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70 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The Government and the NHS should consider establishing a volunteer reserve database so that volunteers...
The Government and the NHS should consider establishing a volunteer reserve database so that volunteers who have had appropriate checks can be rapidly called up and deployed in an emergency rather than needing to begin from scratch.
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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71 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The experience of the demands placed on the NHS during the covid-19 pandemic should lead...
The experience of the demands placed on the NHS during the covid-19 pandemic should lead to a more explicit, and monitored, surge capacity being part of the long term organisation and funding of the NHS.
Government Response
The experience of the demands placed on the NHS during the COVID-19 pandemic should lead to a more explicit, and monitored, surge capacity being part of the long term organisation … Read more
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72 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The NHS should develop and publish new protocols for infection prevention and control in pandemics...
The NHS should develop and publish new protocols for infection prevention and control in pandemics covering staffing, bed capacity and physical infrastructure. In developing these protocols the NHS should consider the importance of maintaining access for people accompanying some patients … Read more
Government Response
The experience of the demands placed on the NHS during the COVID-19 pandemic should lead to a more explicit, and monitored, surge capacity being part of the long term organisation … Read more
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73 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Comprehensive analysis should be carried out to assess the safety of running the NHS with...
Comprehensive analysis should be carried out to assess the safety of running the NHS with the limited latent capacity that it currently has, particularly in Intensive Care Units, critical care units and high dependency units.
Government Response
The experience of the demands placed on the NHS during the COVID-19 pandemic should lead to a more explicit, and monitored, surge capacity being part of the long term organisation … Read more
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74 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Building on the experience of staff working more flexibly during the pandemic and to enable...
Building on the experience of staff working more flexibly during the pandemic and to enable more flexible staffing in the NHS, NHS England and Health Education England should develop proposals to better enable NHS staff to change clinical specialty mid-career … Read more
Government Response
The government accepts this recommendation. NHS England has a range of programmes in place to support flexible working, and is committed to continually improving career pathways within the NHS. This … Read more
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75 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Much of the impact of covid-19 during the first wave was determined by decisions made...
Much of the impact of covid-19 during the first wave was determined by decisions made during the early weeks of the pandemic, between January and late March 2020. The seriousness of the threat to the UK was recognised in January … Read more
Government Response
In the early days of a crisis, scientific advice may be necessarily uncertain: data may be unavailable, knowledge limited and time may be required for analysis to be conducted. In … Read more
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76 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The veil of ignorance through which the UK viewed the initial weeks of the pandemic...
The veil of ignorance through which the UK viewed the initial weeks of the pandemic was partly self-inflicted. As we examine in depth in Chapter 4, the UK failed to turn an early lead in developing a test for covid … Read more
Government Response
Public Health England and its successor bodies, as well as Ministers and their scientific advisers, should be more willing to study and emulate the practice of other countries with urgency … Read more
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77 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The initial UK policy was to take a gradual and incremental approach to introducing non-pharmaceutical...
The initial UK policy was to take a gradual and incremental approach to introducing non-pharmaceutical interventions. A comprehensive lockdown was not ordered until 23 March 2020—two months after SAGE first met to consider the national response to covid- 19.99 This … Read more
Government Response
In future an approach of greater questioning and challenge should characterise the development of policy. Ministers should have the confidence to follow a scientific approach themselves—being prepared to take a … Read more
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78 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
As a result, decisions on lockdowns and social distancing during the early weeks of the...
As a result, decisions on lockdowns and social distancing during the early weeks of the pandemic—and the advice that led to them—rank as one of the most important public health failures the United Kingdom has ever experienced. This happened despite … Read more
Government Response
In bringing together many of the UK’s most accomplished scientists, SAGE became a very UK body. In future, it should include more representation and a wider range of disciplines, from … Read more
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79 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
There has been considerable debate as to whether the early policy of the Government was...
There has been considerable debate as to whether the early policy of the Government was one of seeking to achieve so-called “herd-immunity”. The US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention defines community immunity/herd immunity as: A situation in which a … Read more
Government Response
In a pandemic, the scientific advice from the SAGE co-chairs to the government should be published within 24 hours of it being given, or the policy being decided, whichever is … Read more
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80 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Non-pharmaceutical interventions such as lockdowns, and the testing and isolation of covid cases and their...
Non-pharmaceutical interventions such as lockdowns, and the testing and isolation of covid cases and their contacts, are tools of temporary application. Once they are lifted, there is nothing to stop transmission resuming. When Sir Patrick Vallance said at a Government … Read more
Government Response
The government, via the World Health Organisation, should make the case for an international standard of reporting COVID-19 deaths and a framework for reporting disease related deaths for future pandemics. Read more
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81 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
From our evidence this appears to have led to a policy approach of fatalism about...
From our evidence this appears to have led to a policy approach of fatalism about the prospects for covid in the community: seeking to manage, but not suppress, infection. This amounted in practice to accepting that herd immunity by infection … Read more
Government Response
Scientific excellence is not enough in test and trace programmes: the UK must develop greater operational competence in deployment. In particular, the government must ensure that both the new UK … Read more
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82 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
So in the absence of a vaccine or an effective treatment being available at first,...
So in the absence of a vaccine or an effective treatment being available at first, the UK faced a choice of doing everything possible to halt the virus, or seeking instead to moderate the pace of its spread. The UK chose the latter.106
Government Response
Public Health England and its successor bodies, as well as Ministers and their scientific advisers, should be more willing to study and emulate the practice of other countries with urgency … Read more
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83 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Even as late as 12 March 2020, as noted in paragraph 80, Sir Patrick Vallance,...
Even as late as 12 March 2020, as noted in paragraph 80, Sir Patrick Vallance, Government Chief Scientific Adviser, told a Government press conference that it was not possible to stop everyone being infected, and nor was that a desirable … Read more
Government Response
Those responsible for future test and trace programmes should establish a culture and processes to learn rapidly from errors and to act to prevent them being repeated.
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84 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The Government’s action plan of 3 March indicated that there was no intention to bring...
The Government’s action plan of 3 March indicated that there was no intention to bring in a lockdown as strict as had been implemented in some other parts of the world. The action plan, under the heading ‘the Delay phase … Read more
Government Response
The reactive, short-term horizon of test and trace for much of the pandemic must be replaced by a capacity for anticipation and preparation—even during the course of an emergency.
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85 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
At its meeting of 5 March 2020, SAGE reconfirmed an explicitly gradual approach: There is...
At its meeting of 5 March 2020, SAGE reconfirmed an explicitly gradual approach: There is epidemiological and modelling data to support implementation– within 1 to 2 weeks–of individual home isolation (symptomatic individuals to stay at home for 14 days) and … Read more
Government Response
The organisation of the bodies responsible for testing and tracing should be open and transparent both about their operations and the basis of their decisions.
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86 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
On 9 March 2020, SAGE set out a number of non-pharmaceutical interventions that could in...
On 9 March 2020, SAGE set out a number of non-pharmaceutical interventions that could in due course be introduced by the Government. SAGE advised that “measures relating to individual and household isolation will likely need to be enacted within the … Read more
Government Response
Planning for future pandemics should have a more developed and explicit consideration of the intense interaction between the NHS and social care. The prominence of social care within the Department … Read more
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87 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
It is striking, looking back, that it was accepted that the level of covid-19 infection...
It is striking, looking back, that it was accepted that the level of covid-19 infection in the UK could be controlled by turning on particular non-pharmaceutical interventions at particular times. Indeed such was the belief in this ability to calibrate … Read more
Government Response
Long term reform of social care is overdue and should be pursued as a matter of urgency. The government’s recent announcement on the future of social care is welcome, but … Read more
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88 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
This was not the only way to proceed, and indeed the UK was an outlier...
This was not the only way to proceed, and indeed the UK was an outlier internationally in the gradualist approach that was being taken before late March.120 Countries in East Asia were the first to experience covid-19. Their response was … Read more
Government Response
We endorse the Health and Social Care Committee’s call for additional resources to be directed to social care. That Committee has made the case for an increase of £7 billion … Read more
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89 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
On 24 February the World Health Organisation published the report of its international mission to...
On 24 February the World Health Organisation published the report of its international mission to Wuhan, and advised that countries should: (1) Immediately activate the highest level of national Response Management protocols to ensure the all-of-government and all-of-society approach needed … Read more
Government Response
The government welcomes the opportunity to respond to the recommendations made by the House of Commons Health and Social Care Committee and Science and Technology Committee in their joint report … Read more
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90 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
In evidence to the Science and Technology Committee on 25 March 2020, the Editor of...
In evidence to the Science and Technology Committee on 25 March 2020, the Editor of The Lancet, Dr Richard Horton, said that his journal had published articles on 24, 29 and 31 January with an analysis of the situation in … Read more
Government Response
The government welcomes the opportunity to respond to the recommendations made by the House of Commons Health and Social Care Committee and Science and Technology Committee in their joint report … Read more
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91 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The UK policy was to change abruptly.
The UK policy was to change abruptly. During the days before 23 March, multiple people within the Government and its advisers experienced simultaneous epiphanies that the course the UK was following was wrong, possibly catastrophically so. In his evidence to … Read more
Government Response
The government welcomes the opportunity to respond to the recommendations made by the House of Commons Health and Social Care Committee and Science and Technology Committee in their joint report … Read more
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92 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
In evidence to the Science and Technology Committee in July 2020, Sir Patrick Vallance, said...
In evidence to the Science and Technology Committee in July 2020, Sir Patrick Vallance, said that SAGE advised the Government to implement the remainder of the menu of options for social distancing measures—in essence a full lockdown—on 16 or 18 … Read more
Government Response
The government welcomes the opportunity to respond to the recommendations made by the House of Commons Health and Social Care Committee and Science and Technology Committee in their joint report … Read more
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93 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
It seems astonishing looking back that—despite the documented experiences of other countries; despite the then...
It seems astonishing looking back that—despite the documented experiences of other countries; despite the then Secretary of State referring to data with a Reasonable Worst Case Scenario of 820,000 deaths;138 despite the raw mathematics of a virus which, if it … Read more
Government Response
The government welcomes the opportunity to respond to the recommendations made by the House of Commons Health and Social Care Committee and Science and Technology Committee in their joint report … Read more
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94 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The UK did not impose blanket or rigorous border controls at the onset of the...
The UK did not impose blanket or rigorous border controls at the onset of the covid-19 pandemic as compared to other countries, particularly in East and South East Asia.140 Instead, the UK implemented light-touch border controls only on countries and … Read more
Government Response
The government welcomes the opportunity to respond to the recommendations made by the House of Commons Health and Social Care Committee and Science and Technology Committee in their joint report … Read more
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95 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
By contrast, other countries implemented more rigorous border controls which were more effective at suppressing...
By contrast, other countries implemented more rigorous border controls which were more effective at suppressing the virus and preventing the need for long and repeated lockdowns. However, even though it is not straightforward to make direct comparisons between countries, and … Read more
Government Response
The government welcomes the opportunity to respond to the recommendations made by the House of Commons Health and Social Care Committee and Science and Technology Committee in their joint report … Read more
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96 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
In the paragraphs that follow we consider some of the potential explanations of why the...
In the paragraphs that follow we consider some of the potential explanations of why the initial decision-making on lockdowns was wrong, and what lessons can be drawn for the future from this. Should the Government have unilaterally taken a precautionary … Read more
Government Response
The government welcomes the opportunity to respond to the recommendations made by the House of Commons Health and Social Care Committee and Science and Technology Committee in their joint report … Read more
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97 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The UK’s structure of scientific advice in emergencies, in which a group is formed of...
The UK’s structure of scientific advice in emergencies, in which a group is formed of relevant experts (SAGE) to advise the Government is a prominent feature of our arrangements—much more so than in many other countries. Initially, participation in SAGE … Read more
Government Response
The government welcomes the opportunity to respond to the recommendations made by the House of Commons Health and Social Care Committee and Science and Technology Committee in their joint report … Read more
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98 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
SAGE provides advice to Ministers, whose responsibility it is to make policy decisions.
SAGE provides advice to Ministers, whose responsibility it is to make policy decisions. However, witnesses to our Committees confirmed that during the early months of the pandemic the Government acted on the scientific advice it was given. Sir Patrick Vallance, … Read more
Government Response
The government welcomes the opportunity to respond to the recommendations made by the House of Commons Health and Social Care Committee and Science and Technology Committee in their joint report … Read more
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99 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
We accept that it is difficult for Ministers to go against a scientific consensus among...
We accept that it is difficult for Ministers to go against a scientific consensus among the body set up to provide scientific advice during a national emergency. We also understand the reluctance to introduce measures with significant negative economic impact. … Read more
Government Response
The government welcomes the opportunity to respond to the recommendations made by the House of Commons Health and Social Care Committee and Science and Technology Committee in their joint report … Read more
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100 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Several witnesses to our inquiry, reflecting on the early weeks of the pandemic, were rueful...
Several witnesses to our inquiry, reflecting on the early weeks of the pandemic, were rueful that they did not sufficiently question and challenge the advice they were being given. We heard that challenging an established scientific consensus was difficult. Dominic … Read more
Government Response
In future an approach of greater questioning and challenge should characterise the development of policy. Ministers should have the confidence to follow a scientific approach themselves—being prepared to take a … Read more
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101 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The then Secretary of State, Matt Hancock MP, made the same point regarding the difficulty...
The then Secretary of State, Matt Hancock MP, made the same point regarding the difficulty of challenging a scientific consensus.148 On 28 January 2020, SAGE said that testing asymptomatic individuals would “not be useful”.149 However, at the same meeting, SAGE … Read more
Government Response
In future an approach of greater questioning and challenge should characterise the development of policy. Ministers should have the confidence to follow a scientific approach themselves—being prepared to take a … Read more
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102 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
We accept that it is difficult to challenge a widely held scientific consensus.
We accept that it is difficult to challenge a widely held scientific consensus. But accountability in a democracy depends on elected decision-makers taking advice, but examining, questioning and challenging it before making their own decisions. We find it surprising that … Read more
Government Response
In future an approach of greater questioning and challenge should characterise the development of policy. Ministers should have the confidence to follow a scientific approach themselves—being prepared to take a … Read more
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103 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
In his evidence to the Science and Technology Committee during the early weeks of the...
In his evidence to the Science and Technology Committee during the early weeks of the pandemic, on 25 March, the Editor of the Lancet expressed concern that mathematical modelling was playing too influential a role in UK scientific advice.157 The … Read more
Government Response
In future an approach of greater questioning and challenge should characterise the development of policy. Ministers should have the confidence to follow a scientific approach themselves—being prepared to take a … Read more
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104 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Evidence to the Science and Technology Committee from other academic disciplines included scepticism of the...
Evidence to the Science and Technology Committee from other academic disciplines included scepticism of the weight being placed on mathematical models during the pandemic. For example Professor Sir John Kay, Economist and Fellow in Economics, St 152 Correspondence from Rt … Read more
Government Response
In future an approach of greater questioning and challenge should characterise the development of policy. Ministers should have the confidence to follow a scientific approach themselves—being prepared to take a … Read more
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105 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Sir John also highlighted concerns about how different academic disciplines did not collaborate sufficiently on...
Sir John also highlighted concerns about how different academic disciplines did not collaborate sufficiently on models.164 Professor James Poterba, Mitsui Professor of Economics, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, explained to the Science and Technology Committee that the consequence of this was … Read more
Government Response
In future an approach of greater questioning and challenge should characterise the development of policy. Ministers should have the confidence to follow a scientific approach themselves—being prepared to take a … Read more
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106 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Professor Chris Whitty noted that he preferred advice to be given on the basis of...
Professor Chris Whitty noted that he preferred advice to be given on the basis of observed data, telling the Science and Technology Committee in November 2020: “It is important to say that a lot of the advice that I have … Read more
Government Response
In future an approach of greater questioning and challenge should characterise the development of policy. Ministers should have the confidence to follow a scientific approach themselves—being prepared to take a … Read more
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107 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Yet despite this, throughout the pandemic, detailed modelled projections have assumed a great prominence and...
Yet despite this, throughout the pandemic, detailed modelled projections have assumed a great prominence and have evidently had great influence on Government decisions. Indeed, the publication of the Imperial study of 16 March, is often cited as one of the … Read more
Government Response
In future an approach of greater questioning and challenge should characterise the development of policy. Ministers should have the confidence to follow a scientific approach themselves—being prepared to take a … Read more
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108 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Another potential reason for the late lockdown was the behavioural advice that was being tendered...
Another potential reason for the late lockdown was the behavioural advice that was being tendered to the Government. Behavioural advice is tendered to the Government through SAGE’s sub-group, the Scientific Pandemic Insights Group on Behaviours (SPI- B).168 SPI-B’s first publicly … Read more
Government Response
In future an approach of greater questioning and challenge should characterise the development of policy. Ministers should have the confidence to follow a scientific approach themselves—being prepared to take a … Read more
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109 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The initial action plan did not consider the possibility of ceasing all non-essential contact.
The initial action plan did not consider the possibility of ceasing all non-essential contact. Dominic Cummings told us that the idea of behavioural fatigue was a part of “false groupthink”: One of the critical things that was completely wrong in … Read more
Government Response
In future an approach of greater questioning and challenge should characterise the development of policy. Ministers should have the confidence to follow a scientific approach themselves—being prepared to take a … Read more
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110 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
It transpired that the UK public were very compliant with the eventual lockdown measures.175 Professor...
It transpired that the UK public were very compliant with the eventual lockdown measures.175 Professor Chris Whitty also said in November 2020: Across the board, my reflection is that the great majority of people—and this is reflected in all the … Read more
Government Response
In future an approach of greater questioning and challenge should characterise the development of policy. Ministers should have the confidence to follow a scientific approach themselves—being prepared to take a … Read more
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111 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The restrictions eventually imposed on the UK public because of the pandemic were unprecedented.
The restrictions eventually imposed on the UK public because of the pandemic were unprecedented. Even in wartime there had been no equivalent of the order to make it a criminal offence for people to meet each other and to remain … Read more
Government Response
In future an approach of greater questioning and challenge should characterise the development of policy. Ministers should have the confidence to follow a scientific approach themselves—being prepared to take a … Read more
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112 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
We have referred to early evidence from Dr Richard Horton, the Editor of the Lancet,...
We have referred to early evidence from Dr Richard Horton, the Editor of the Lancet, who was concerned that SAGE in its early months was taking insufficient account of international perspectives. At the time he gave his evidence, Dr Horton, … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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113 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
It is a characteristic of the best UK scientific institutions, and the people that work...
It is a characteristic of the best UK scientific institutions, and the people that work in them, that much of their research involves extensive international collaboration. However, for a virus that has affected every country in the world and which … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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114 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Dr Horton expressed concerns about the evidence base that SAGE in its early meetings drew...
Dr Horton expressed concerns about the evidence base that SAGE in its early meetings drew upon. Referring to scientists in East Asia, Dr Horton told the Science and Technology Committee: If I had been Chair of SAGE, I would have … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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115 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Although introduced several weeks after it should have been, the national lockdown brought in on...
Although introduced several weeks after it should have been, the national lockdown brought in on 23 March succeeded in reducing the incidence of covid across the country, so that from May 2020 national restrictions were eased. However, tougher restrictions were … Read more
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116 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The Government sought to agree with local leaders the package of restrictions that would apply...
The Government sought to agree with local leaders the package of restrictions that would apply in particular areas. However, the consequence of this approach led to political differences between national government and some local leaders as to what measures were … Read more
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117 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
By mid-September 2020, case rates were rising across the country, but there were significant local...
By mid-September 2020, case rates were rising across the country, but there were significant local differences. For example, on 30 September, the incidence of covid ranged from 607 per 100,000 population per week in East Sussex, to 4,318 in Knowsley.182 … Read more
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118 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
As we discuss in Chapter 4, there had been hopes that by Autumn 2020 an...
As we discuss in Chapter 4, there had been hopes that by Autumn 2020 an effective test, trace and isolate system—promised to be “world-beating”—would allow covid levels to be contained without recourse to extensive lockdown restrictions. Indeed the business case … Read more
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119 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The experience of the tiered system during the autumn was, however, unsatisfactory.
The experience of the tiered system during the autumn was, however, unsatisfactory. In the absence of effective contact tracing, the regional restrictions proved not to be anywhere near watertight enough to prevent infections spreading, compounded by delays in getting test … Read more
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120 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Professor Dame Angela McLean, Chief Scientific Adviser to the Ministry of Defence and a participant...
Professor Dame Angela McLean, Chief Scientific Adviser to the Ministry of Defence and a participant of SAGE, told the Science and Technology Committee in February 2021 that the tier system waited until prevalence was high before any action was taken, … Read more
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121 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Another problem with the tiered restrictions that were implemented during the autumn of 2020 was...
Another problem with the tiered restrictions that were implemented during the autumn of 2020 was that it was not fully clear what criteria would cause a particular area to be placed in a given tier, nor what would be required … Read more
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122 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
There has also been a lack of transparency over the scientific case for particular interventions.
There has also been a lack of transparency over the scientific case for particular interventions. After the initial, broad lockdown had been lifted specific prohibitions were introduced in later months. Such restrictions were typically justified by Ministers as 186 Q164 … Read more
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123 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Scientific advice was cited in justification for increasingly fine-grained restrictions— with which some of the...
Scientific advice was cited in justification for increasingly fine-grained restrictions— with which some of the Government’s scientific advisers were often visibly uncomfortable. When Sir Patrick Vallance, the Government Chief Scientific Adviser, was asked on 3 November why children’s outdoor sport … Read more
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124 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The two months between September 2020 and 31 October 2020 were an unsatisfactory period in...
The two months between September 2020 and 31 October 2020 were an unsatisfactory period in which the comparative simplicity of the rules in place from the evening of 23 March onwards were replaced by a complex, inconsistent, shifting and scientifically … Read more
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125 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Throughout September and October 2020, case numbers and hospitalisations continued to rise nationwide.
Throughout September and October 2020, case numbers and hospitalisations continued to rise nationwide. As the virus started to spread and a second wave appeared to have started, SAGE advised on 21 September 2020 that a two week ‘circuit breaker’, a … Read more
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126 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
In evidence to the Science and Technology Committee in November 2020, Sir Patrick Vallance added...
In evidence to the Science and Technology Committee in November 2020, Sir Patrick Vallance added that the intention of the circuit breaker was to enable the test and trace system—which in September had once again been found to be inadequate—to … Read more
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127 Recommendation
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Dominic Cummings told our inquiry that Downing Street held a meeting on 20 September 2020...
Dominic Cummings told our inquiry that Downing Street held a meeting on 20 September 2020 for the Prime Minister to hear both sides of the argument. He explained that Professor John Edmunds put forward the view that the Government should … Read more
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128 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
It is impossible to know whether a circuit breaker would have had a material effect...
It is impossible to know whether a circuit breaker would have had a material effect in preventing a second lockdown, given that such an approach was pursued in Wales, which still ended up having further restrictions in December 2020. But … Read more
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129 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
On 31 October 2020, the Prime Minister announced tougher nationwide restrictions in England—the second lockdown.200...
On 31 October 2020, the Prime Minister announced tougher nationwide restrictions in England—the second lockdown.200 The UK public were once again told to “stay at 194 GOV.UK, SAGE 59, 24 September 2020 195 Oral evidence taken before the Science and … Read more
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130 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The circumstances of the lockdown announced on 31 October were controversial.
The circumstances of the lockdown announced on 31 October were controversial. A Downing Street press conference had been hastily convened on the Saturday evening following leak to newspapers of the Government’s likely intention to bring in a further lockdown. Read more
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131 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
At the press conference, modelling projections were presented which warned of a risk to the...
At the press conference, modelling projections were presented which warned of a risk to the ability of the NHS to cope with likely hospital admissions unless the proposed measures were taken. Sir Patrick Vallance in evidence to the Science and … Read more
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132 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
However, it emerged during the following days that the modelling that was presented at the...
However, it emerged during the following days that the modelling that was presented at the press conference was based on data that had been superseded by more up-to-date information. It also emerged that the forecasts did not include the impact … Read more
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133 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Whilst it is clear the first lockdown was called too late, it is not however...
Whilst it is clear the first lockdown was called too late, it is not however possible to make such a clear cut judgement about the second lockdown from 31 October for two reasons. First, since the advice was taken and … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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134 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Following genomic sequencing, PHE found that the Alpha variant first appeared in Kent in September...
Following genomic sequencing, PHE found that the Alpha variant first appeared in Kent in September 2020 and rapidly became the dominant variant in Kent, and subsequently, the rest of England.207 The new variant was first brought to the attention of … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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135 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Leading virologists who gave evidence to the Science and Technology Committee on 23 December said...
Leading virologists who gave evidence to the Science and Technology Committee on 23 December said that the Government had acted quickly in response to the new evidence. For example, Professor Peter Horby, Chair of the New and Emerging Respiratory Virus … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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136 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The second wave of the pandemic was more numerous in terms of hospital admissions and...
The second wave of the pandemic was more numerous in terms of hospital admissions and deaths than the first wave. It peaked on 8 January 2021 with 68,053 new infections per day reported in the UK,214 and on 20 January … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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137 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Due to the much higher transmissibility of the Alpha variant, in the absence of a...
Due to the much higher transmissibility of the Alpha variant, in the absence of a test, trace and isolate system capable of arresting the spread of the virus, a circuit-breaker in September and an earlier, more stringent lockdown, would likely … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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138 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
But these decisions were taken before the existence of the Alpha variant was known.
But these decisions were taken before the existence of the Alpha variant was known. So the justification for an earlier lockdown is greatly influenced by information that was not available at the time. It serves to illustrate that, in a … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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139 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Several public health experts stressed to us that an effective messaging and communications strategy was...
Several public health experts stressed to us that an effective messaging and communications strategy was a crucial part of the response to a pandemic. In July 2020, Sir Paul Nurse argued in evidence to the Health and Social Care Committee … Read more
Government Response
As the report points out, public health communications are key to the public’s understanding of and compliance with non-pharmaceutical interventions. Messaging from the government early in the pandemic was strong, … Read more
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140 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
At the outset of the pandemic, the Prime Minister’s “stay at home” order was accompanied...
At the outset of the pandemic, the Prime Minister’s “stay at home” order was accompanied by a public messaging campaign that clearly instructed the public to “stay home, protect the NHS, save lives”. This message was driven by regular televised … Read more
Government Response
As the report points out, public health communications are key to the public’s understanding of and compliance with non-pharmaceutical interventions. Messaging from the government early in the pandemic was strong, … Read more
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141 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Much of the evidence to our inquiry has acknowledged that this “Stay at Home” slogan...
Much of the evidence to our inquiry has acknowledged that this “Stay at Home” slogan was successful in fostering sufficient levels of awareness and understanding among the public. For example, during this period there was a marked fall in the … Read more
Government Response
As the report points out, public health communications are key to the public’s understanding of and compliance with non-pharmaceutical interventions. Messaging from the government early in the pandemic was strong, … Read more
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142 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Evidence from University College London (UCL) showed that during the first lockdown, the simplicity and...
Evidence from University College London (UCL) showed that during the first lockdown, the simplicity and clarity of public health messaging did indeed translate into high levels of compliance with the stay at home order. According to UCL, during this period … Read more
Government Response
As the report points out, public health communications are key to the public’s understanding of and compliance with non-pharmaceutical interventions. Messaging from the government early in the pandemic was strong, … Read more
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143 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Although the communications strategy in the initial phase of the pandemic was broadly successful, it...
Although the communications strategy in the initial phase of the pandemic was broadly successful, it is worth noting that there was some confusion over who the stay at home order applied to, and there was criticism of the Government’s decision … Read more
Government Response
As the report points out, public health communications are key to the public’s understanding of and compliance with non-pharmaceutical interventions. Messaging from the government early in the pandemic was strong, … Read more
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144 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
On 10 May 2020, the Government announced that society would begin to reopen in England...
On 10 May 2020, the Government announced that society would begin to reopen in England through a staged series of lockdown easing measures.226 From this point, there were divergent approaches to messaging across the four nations of the UK. To … Read more
Government Response
As the report points out, public health communications are key to the public’s understanding of and compliance with non-pharmaceutical interventions. Messaging from the government early in the pandemic was strong, … Read more
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145 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Written evidence to our inquiry suggested that the loss of consistency across the four nations...
Written evidence to our inquiry suggested that the loss of consistency across the four nations led to confusion, with “messages from numerous national bodies that, at times, appeared to contradict each other”.229 We heard that at this stage, these contradicting … Read more
Government Response
As the report points out, public health communications are key to the public’s understanding of and compliance with non-pharmaceutical interventions. Messaging from the government early in the pandemic was strong, … Read more
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146 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The three-tier approach to local lockdown restrictions in England (see paragraph 117) introduced more complexity...
The three-tier approach to local lockdown restrictions in England (see paragraph 117) introduced more complexity to Government messaging which was, understandably different in different parts of the country.231 It was therefore unsurprising that this more differentiated messaging strategy meant that … Read more
Government Response
As the report points out, public health communications are key to the public’s understanding of and compliance with non-pharmaceutical interventions. Messaging from the government early in the pandemic was strong, … Read more
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147 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Written evidence suggested that the inconsistency in Government messaging after the first wave of the...
Written evidence suggested that the inconsistency in Government messaging after the first wave of the pandemic was also damaging to public trust in official information.233 Analysis submitted by Leeds Beckett University showed that most members of the public did not … Read more
Government Response
As the report points out, public health communications are key to the public’s understanding of and compliance with non-pharmaceutical interventions. Messaging from the government early in the pandemic was strong, … Read more
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148 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Lower levels of public trust and understanding of the regulations also created a gap into...
Lower levels of public trust and understanding of the regulations also created a gap into which misinformation was able to spread. Research conducted by Ofcom in the first six weeks of the pandemic found that 47% of respondents said they … Read more
Government Response
As the report points out, public health communications are key to the public’s understanding of and compliance with non-pharmaceutical interventions. Messaging from the government early in the pandemic was strong, … Read more
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149 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The covid pandemic is a global emergency that is not yet over.
The covid pandemic is a global emergency that is not yet over. While the UK’s trajectory may have changed in recent months with vaccines, the vast majority of the world is still grappling with the disease. It would be prudent … Read more
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150 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
One of the key ways to measure a country’s success in fighting covid-19 is to...
One of the key ways to measure a country’s success in fighting covid-19 is to measure deaths from covid-19. However, countries across the world measure deaths in different ways. The UK has reported covid deaths as those who died within … Read more
Government Response
The government, via the World Health Organisation, should make the case for an international standard of reporting COVID-19 deaths and a framework for reporting disease related deaths for future pandemics. Read more
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151 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
There are also other factors to be considered.
There are also other factors to be considered. Each country has a unique set of characteristics which might have contributed to its health related covid-19 outcomes. For example, the UK has the tenth-highest rate of obesity in the world,241 which … Read more
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152 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
During the first three months of the covid pandemic, the UK followed the wrong policy...
During the first three months of the covid pandemic, the UK followed the wrong policy in its use of non-pharmaceutical interventions. When the UK moved from the ‘contain’ to ‘delay’ stage, there was a policy of seeking to only moderate … Read more
Government Response
In the early days of a crisis, scientific advice may be necessarily uncertain: data may be unavailable, knowledge limited and time may be required for analysis to be conducted. In … Read more
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153 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The flattening the curve policy was implemented by introducing new restrictions only gradually and slowly,...
The flattening the curve policy was implemented by introducing new restrictions only gradually and slowly, acting as if the spread of the virus were susceptible to calibrated control. Modelling at the time suggested that to suppress the spread of covid-19 … Read more
Government Response
In the early days of a crisis, scientific advice may be necessarily uncertain: data may be unavailable, knowledge limited and time may be required for analysis to be conducted. In … Read more
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154 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
There are several possible explanations for what was a significant error in policy and advice...
There are several possible explanations for what was a significant error in policy and advice early in the pandemic. These include: • the lack of adequate data on the spread of covid-19, as a result of the inadequacy of the … Read more
Government Response
In the early days of a crisis, scientific advice may be necessarily uncertain: data may be unavailable, knowledge limited and time may be required for analysis to be conducted. In … Read more
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155 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Science proceeds through challenge and disputation, and new theories are tested unflinchingly against evidence.
Science proceeds through challenge and disputation, and new theories are tested unflinchingly against evidence. Yet Ministers and other advisers reported that they felt it difficult to challenge the views of their official scientific advisers. Those in Government have a duty … Read more
Government Response
In the early days of a crisis, scientific advice may be necessarily uncertain: data may be unavailable, knowledge limited and time may be required for analysis to be conducted. In … Read more
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156 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The second wave of covid infections, hospitalisations and deaths during the autumn and winter of...
The second wave of covid infections, hospitalisations and deaths during the autumn and winter of 2020/21 was significantly driven by the emergence of a new variant, known as the Kent or Alpha variant. It is likely that a “circuit break” … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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157 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Government public health communications are key to the public’s understanding of and compliance with non-pharmaceutical...
Government public health communications are key to the public’s understanding of and compliance with non-pharmaceutical interventions. Initial messaging from the Government early in the pandemic was strong, effective and undoubtedly contributed to the success of the first lockdown. After the … Read more
Government Response
As the report points out, public health communications are key to the public’s understanding of and compliance with non-pharmaceutical interventions. Messaging from the government early in the pandemic was strong, … Read more
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158 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
In the early days of a crisis, scientific advice may be necessarily uncertain: data may...
In the early days of a crisis, scientific advice may be necessarily uncertain: data may be unavailable, knowledge limited and time may be required for analysis to be conducted. In these circumstances it may be appropriate to act quickly, on … Read more
Government Response
In the early days of a crisis, scientific advice may be necessarily uncertain: data may be unavailable, knowledge limited and time may be required for analysis to be conducted. In … Read more
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159 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
In future an approach of greater questioning and challenge should characterise the development of policy.
In future an approach of greater questioning and challenge should characterise the development of policy. Ministers should have the confidence to follow a scientific approach themselves—being prepared to take a more robust approach to questioning and challenging the advice given. … Read more
Government Response
In future an approach of greater questioning and challenge should characterise the development of policy. Ministers should have the confidence to follow a scientific approach themselves—being prepared to take a … Read more
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160 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
In bringing together many of the UK’s most accomplished scientists, SAGE became a very UK...
In bringing together many of the UK’s most accomplished scientists, SAGE became a very UK body. In future, it should include more representation and a wider range of disciplines, from other countries, especially those which have experienced, or are experiencing, … Read more
Government Response
In bringing together many of the UK’s most accomplished scientists, SAGE became a very UK body. In future, it should include more representation and a wider range of disciplines, from … Read more
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161 Recommendation
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
In a pandemic, the scientific advice from the SAGE co-chairs to the Government should be...
In a pandemic, the scientific advice from the SAGE co-chairs to the Government should be published within 24 hours of it being given, or the policy being decided, whichever is the later, to ensure the opportunity for rapid scientific challenge … Read more
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162 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The Government, via the World Health Organisation, should make the case for an international standard...
The Government, via the World Health Organisation, should make the case for an international standard of reporting covid-19 deaths and a framework for reporting disease related deaths for future pandemics. 60 Coronavirus: lessons learned to date 4 Testing and contact … Read more
Government Response
The government, via the World Health Organisation, should make the case for an international standard of reporting COVID-19 deaths and a framework for reporting disease related deaths for future pandemics. … Read more
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163 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
While, as we will illustrate in Chapter 7, the UK’s vaccination programme has been a...
While, as we will illustrate in Chapter 7, the UK’s vaccination programme has been a national success, the record during the pandemic of the test, trace and isolate programme is more mixed. The slow, uncertain, and often chaotic performance of … Read more
Government Response
In respect of test, trace and isolate, the government will build on the legacy of the response to this pandemic. As the government has set out in the ‘Living with … Read more
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164 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
This Chapter looks at a number of different facets of the test, trace and isolate...
This Chapter looks at a number of different facets of the test, trace and isolate system— though they are illustrative rather than exhaustive. While it describes an unsatisfactory history, there are signs that the UK has now arrived at a … Read more
Government Response
In respect of test, trace and isolate, the government will build on the legacy of the response to this pandemic. As the government has set out in the ‘Living with … Read more
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165 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
In this Chapter we consider in particular: • the initial testing capacity available; • the...
In this Chapter we consider in particular: • the initial testing capacity available; • the decision to abandon testing in the community; • the 100,000 tests a day target introduced by the then Secretary of State; • the centralisation of … Read more
Government Response
In respect of test, trace and isolate, the government will build on the legacy of the response to this pandemic. As the government has set out in the ‘Living with … Read more
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166 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
During the early days of the pandemic, the Government believed—and told the public—that testing for...
During the early days of the pandemic, the Government believed—and told the public—that testing for covid-19 was a field in which the UK had a leading position. This assessment was shared, and possibly arose out of, the views of scientific … Read more
Government Response
In respect of test, trace and isolate, the government will build on the legacy of the response to this pandemic. As the government has set out in the ‘Living with … Read more
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167 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
SAGE minutes from 28 January 2020 recorded that notwithstanding the scientific lead in establishing a...
SAGE minutes from 28 January 2020 recorded that notwithstanding the scientific lead in establishing a test, PHE only had operational capacity to administer “400 to 500 tests per day” for the whole country.248 Other countries such as South Korea and … Read more
Government Response
In respect of test, trace and isolate, the government will build on the legacy of the response to this pandemic. As the government has set out in the ‘Living with … Read more
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168 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Professor Martin explained to us that early in the pandemic there were “very severe constraints...
Professor Martin explained to us that early in the pandemic there were “very severe constraints in equipment and consumables” which acted as a drag on testing capacity: Bear in mind that those were all new tests coming on stream at … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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169 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
However, throughout the pandemic, our Committees have taken a great interest in what might be...
However, throughout the pandemic, our Committees have taken a great interest in what might be learned and applied from how other countries tackled the virus. In March 2020, the World Health Organisation recommended that nations “plan for surge capacity by … Read more
Government Response
Public Health England and its successor bodies, as well as Ministers and their scientific advisers, should be more willing to study and emulate the practice of other countries with urgency … Read more
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170 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
In evidence to the Science and Technology Committee on 25 March 2020 Public Health England...
In evidence to the Science and Technology Committee on 25 March 2020 Public Health England claimed to have formally studied, but rejected, the South Korean approach.255 Despite repeated requests by the Committee no evidence of such an evaluation has ever … Read more
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171 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
As a result the UK squandered a leading position in diagnostics and converted it into...
As a result the UK squandered a leading position in diagnostics and converted it into one of permanent crisis. On 12 March, testing for covid-19 other than in hospitals was halted. In part this was because of the inadequacy of … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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172 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Shortly after this seminal failure, in mid-March 2020 responsibility for the testing strategy was taken...
Shortly after this seminal failure, in mid-March 2020 responsibility for the testing strategy was taken over by the Department of Health and Social Care from Public Health England.256 It was not until 18 May 2020, when the first wave of … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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173 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The consequences of this initial failure were profound.
The consequences of this initial failure were profound. Testing not only allowed individuals to be identified who had covid-19—and were infectious—but test results for an invisible virus were the only way to be able to accurately monitor the incidence and … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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174 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
For a country with a world-class expertise in data analysis, to face the biggest health...
For a country with a world-class expertise in data analysis, to face the biggest health crisis in a hundred years with virtually no data to analyse was an almost unimaginable setback. The reasons for this initial inadequacy to translate testing … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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175 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
We also consider that the Government’s scientific advisers were too passive in accepting assurances that...
We also consider that the Government’s scientific advisers were too passive in accepting assurances that the clinical operational capacity of Public Health England could not be changed. Even in March 2020, Professor Neil Ferguson explained that “much 254 Q129 255 … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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176 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
It is clear that there should have been more challenge to Public Health England to...
It is clear that there should have been more challenge to Public Health England to increase testing capacity from the outset by Ministers, scientific advisers and the Department of Health and Social Care rather than accepting it as a fait … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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177 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
As noted earlier, the failure to have enough testing capacity in the early weeks of...
As noted earlier, the failure to have enough testing capacity in the early weeks of the pandemic contributed to a lack of knowledge as to how the infection was spreading in the country. Speaking to us in November 2020, Professor … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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178 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The lack of data resulting from suspending community testing also affected the UK’s understanding of...
The lack of data resulting from suspending community testing also affected the UK’s understanding of the disease at that critical time. Professor Neil Ferguson explained to the Science and Technology Committee in June 2020 that low testing capacity meant it … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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179 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Professor Chris Whitty told the Health and Social Care Committee in July 2020 that the...
Professor Chris Whitty told the Health and Social Care Committee in July 2020 that the lack of testing capacity available at the beginning of the pandemic meant that the Government had to focus resources very closely on the hospital sector, … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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180 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The lack of available testing for social care was particularly damaging, as we discuss in...
The lack of available testing for social care was particularly damaging, as we discuss in more detail later in this Report. Crucially, it was not until mid-April that covid-19 testing was made a requirement for people discharged from hospital to … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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181 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The Health and Social Care Committee’s Reports on social care and the delivery of core...
The Health and Social Care Committee’s Reports on social care and the delivery of core NHS and care services during the pandemic also highlighted the impact of a lack of testing for social care staff in the initial wave of … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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182 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Following the initial shortage of testing capacity and the slow increase in the availability of...
Following the initial shortage of testing capacity and the slow increase in the availability of tests during the critical first eight weeks of the pandemic, responsibility for the testing strategy was removed from Public Health England and vested in the … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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183 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Subsequently, Dominic Cummings, in evidence to our inquiry, strongly criticised the then Secretary of State...
Subsequently, Dominic Cummings, in evidence to our inquiry, strongly criticised the then Secretary of State for naming this target, describing it as “an incredibly stupid thing to do.”272 However, Mr Hancock defended the target, saying to the Committees, “that 100,000 … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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184 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Given the painfully slow increase in the availability of testing before April 2020, we consider...
Given the painfully slow increase in the availability of testing before April 2020, we consider that the impact of the Secretary of State’s target to have been an appropriate one to galvanise the rapid change the system needed. However, as … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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185 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
As a result of the increase in testing capacity driven during April, the UK Government...
As a result of the increase in testing capacity driven during April, the UK Government finally resumed community testing on 18 May 2020, following an expansion of capacity, which included more than a doubling of the NHS and PHE laboratory … Read more
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186 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Evidence received by the Science and Technology Committee suggested that taking a centralised approach to...
Evidence received by the Science and Technology Committee suggested that taking a centralised approach to increasing testing capacity was appropriate as it might not have been practical to focus on boosting local-level capacity alone. For example, Dr Richard Harling, Director … Read more
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187 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
However, both our Committees heard that other resources could have been used more effectively in...
However, both our Committees heard that other resources could have been used more effectively in the initial expansion of testing capacity. Professor Sir Chris Ham explained that initially the Government was “very much focused on building capacity in the commercial … Read more
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188 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Despite this, it appeared that there was a disconnect between the testing operation in the...
Despite this, it appeared that there was a disconnect between the testing operation in the Lighthouse Laboratories and NHS labs. For example, the Institute of Biomedical Science suggested that there was a “lack of integration and collaboration” between the laboratories … Read more
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189 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Throughout the last 18 months, the test and trace system has had labels applied that...
Throughout the last 18 months, the test and trace system has had labels applied that have been at variance with the reality. Ministers began by promising the test and trace system would be “world-beating” in May 2020 when the truth … Read more
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190 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
In May 2020 the label “NHS” was applied by the Department of Health and Social...
In May 2020 the label “NHS” was applied by the Department of Health and Social Care to the test and tracing system, despite it being operated outside the NHS. It was notable that in evidence to our inquiry, the then … Read more
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191 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The Government has pursued both mass antibody testing (to identify who previously had covid-19) and...
The Government has pursued both mass antibody testing (to identify who previously had covid-19) and mass diagnostic testing (to identify those currently infected) as means to return to normality. In its April 2020 testing strategy, the Government said it was … Read more
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192 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
That optimism does not appear to have been shared by scientists advising the Government, who...
That optimism does not appear to have been shared by scientists advising the Government, who struck a more cautious note. For example, at the same press conference Sir Patrick Vallance pointed out that the technologies still had to be trialled, … Read more
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193 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
As with other aspects of covid-19 testing, the Government has put a significant amount of...
As with other aspects of covid-19 testing, the Government has put a significant amount of public money towards mass testing. The NAO’s December 2020 report on test and trace indicated that (leading up to October) £2.9 billion had been earmarked … Read more
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194 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
During the summer of 2020, rates of covid infection declined markedly in most parts of...
During the summer of 2020, rates of covid infection declined markedly in most parts of the United Kingdom. Average hospitalisations from covid fell to 119 per day on 1 August 2020 compared to 3,000 per day in early April. Yet … Read more
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195 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Despite undergoing a large increase in testing capacity over the first lockdown period— reaching over...
Despite undergoing a large increase in testing capacity over the first lockdown period— reaching over 200,000 daily tests by the beginning of June 2020298—the test and trace service in England then struggled to keep up with a sharp increase in … Read more
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196 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
During September 2020, the Science and Technology Committee heard from Baroness Harding that NHS Test...
During September 2020, the Science and Technology Committee heard from Baroness Harding that NHS Test and Trace had “planned for a sizeable increase” but that she “[did] not think anybody was expecting” the level of demand experienced.301 She explained one … Read more
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197 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The NAO’s December 2020 report pointed out further that NHS Test and Trace was unable...
The NAO’s December 2020 report pointed out further that NHS Test and Trace was unable to meet demand due to insufficient laboratory capacity as a result of: • delays in getting new laboratories up and running; • delays in delivering … Read more
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198 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Two months earlier, in July 2020, the Government Chief Scientific Adviser, Sir Patrick Vallance, told...
Two months earlier, in July 2020, the Government Chief Scientific Adviser, Sir Patrick Vallance, told the Science and Technology Committee that extra testing capacity would be “essential” ahead of schools reopening.306 However, he suggested that the Government did 298 GOV.UK, … Read more
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199 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Overall, the National Audit Office concluded that NHS Test and Trace “did not plan for...
Overall, the National Audit Office concluded that NHS Test and Trace “did not plan for a sharp rise in testing demand in early Autumn [2020]” and was therefore “unprepared.”311 Professor Chris Whitty reiterated to both Committees in December 2020 that … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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200 Recommendation
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The failure of the test and trace system to rise to meet even the most...
The failure of the test and trace system to rise to meet even the most predictable of demands in Autumn 2020, especially given many weeks to prepare, suggests that lessons that were learnable during the pandemic were not applied. An … Read more
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1 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The UK has established procedures and structures to prepare for the nation’s major future risks,...
The UK has established procedures and structures to prepare for the nation’s major future risks, including a National Risk Register, the Civil Contingencies Secretariat and the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE). However, the anticipated future risk of pandemic disease … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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2 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Previous exercises to test the national response capability, namely Exercises Cygnus and Winter Willow, did...
Previous exercises to test the national response capability, namely Exercises Cygnus and Winter Willow, did not squarely address a disease with the characteristics of covid-19. Nevertheless, some useful lessons were learned and applied, such as the drafting of legislative measures … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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3 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The operation of COBR was not well-suited to the modern demands of a pandemic response.
The operation of COBR was not well-suited to the modern demands of a pandemic response. It is especially concerning that its culture of confidentiality was considered by some to be so unreliable that alternative meetings were arranged that could command … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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4 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The Civil Contingencies Secretariat did not have adequate resources to maintain a substantial standing capability...
The Civil Contingencies Secretariat did not have adequate resources to maintain a substantial standing capability to survey the development of potential threats, and it had a limited reach into the range of Government departments required to respond to a pandemic. … Read more
Government Response
The government accepts this recommendation. The resourcing and capabilities of the Civil Contingencies Secretariat (CCS) have been improved. CCS is empowered to ‘stress test’ plans and ensure that Departments are … Read more
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5 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Protocols to share data between public bodies involved in the response were too slow to...
Protocols to share data between public bodies involved in the response were too slow to establish and to become functional. This was especially true in the data flows from national to local government.
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government recognises the importance of establishing arrangements that allow immediate flows of data between relevant bodies with a mechanism to resolve any disputes … Read more
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6 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The NHS responded quickly and strongly to the demands of the pandemic, but compared to...
The NHS responded quickly and strongly to the demands of the pandemic, but compared to other health systems it “runs hot”—with little spare capacity built in to cope with sudden and unexpected surges of demand such as in a pandemic.
Government Response
The government accepts this recommendation. Since the beginning of the pandemic, the NHS has been under significant pressure. There were 390,000 general and acute beds available in 1987, but there … Read more
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7 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
A greater diversity of expertise and challenge—including from practitioners from other countries and a wider...
A greater diversity of expertise and challenge—including from practitioners from other countries and a wider range of disciplines—should be included in the framing of the National Risk Register and the plans that emanate from it. Plans for the future should … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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8 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
A standing capability should be established in Government, or reporting to it, to scan the...
A standing capability should be established in Government, or reporting to it, to scan the horizon for future threats, with adequate resource and counting on specialists with an independence from short-term political and administrative pressures. (Paragraph 65) Coronavirus: lessons learned … Read more
Government Response
The government does not accept this recommendation for the reason that there exist already a range of complementary standing capabilities that aim to identify and assess current and future malicious … Read more
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9 Recommendation
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The Government should ensure comprehensive plans are made for future risks and emergencies.
The Government should ensure comprehensive plans are made for future risks and emergencies. The UK should aim to be a world leader in co-ordinating international resilience planning, including reform of the World Health Organisation to ensure that it is able … Read more
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10 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The resourcing and capabilities of the Civil Contingencies Secretariat should be improved.
The resourcing and capabilities of the Civil Contingencies Secretariat should be improved. The Civil Contingencies Secretariat should be empowered to ‘stress test’ plans and to ensure that Departments are able to carry out a contingency plan if required. The details … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that improvements should be made to the resourcing and capabilities of CCS, whilst recognising the need to balance resources against other … Read more
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11 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Arrangements should be established and tested to allow immediate flows of data between bodies relevant...
Arrangements should be established and tested to allow immediate flows of data between bodies relevant to an emergency response with a mechanism to resolve immediately and decisively any disputes.
Government Response
The government accepts this recommendation. The government recognises the importance of immediate flows of data between bodies relevant to an emergency response and is committed to ensuring that information is … Read more
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12 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The Armed Forces should have a more central and standing role in preparing for and...
The Armed Forces should have a more central and standing role in preparing for and responding to emergencies like pandemics, given the depth of capability and experience they have in planning, logistics and rapid mobilisation. The Civil Contingencies Secretariat should … Read more
Government Response
The government accepts this recommendation. The Armed Forces have a well-established role in supporting resilience in the UK. The Ministry of Defence (MoD) is always ready to respond to requests … Read more
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13 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The Government and the NHS should consider establishing a volunteer reserve database so that volunteers...
The Government and the NHS should consider establishing a volunteer reserve database so that volunteers who have had appropriate checks can be rapidly called up and deployed in an emergency rather than needing to begin from scratch.
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. NHS England has been working with St John Ambulance since January 2021 to establish a framework that can be used to commission additional capacity … Read more
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14 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The experience of the demands placed on the NHS during the covid-19 pandemic should lead...
The experience of the demands placed on the NHS during the covid-19 pandemic should lead to a more explicit, and monitored, surge capacity being part of the long term organisation and funding of the NHS.
Government Response
The experience of the demands placed on the NHS during the COVID-19 pandemic should lead to a more explicit, and monitored, surge capacity being part of the long term organisation … Read more
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15 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The NHS should develop and publish new protocols for infection prevention and control in pandemics...
The NHS should develop and publish new protocols for infection prevention and control in pandemics covering staffing, bed capacity and physical infrastructure. In developing these protocols the NHS should consider the importance of maintaining access for people accompanying some patients … Read more
Government Response
The NHS should develop and publish new protocols for infection prevention and control in pandemics covering staffing, bed capacity and physical infrastructure. In developing these protocols the NHS should consider … Read more
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16 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Comprehensive analysis should be carried out to assess the safety of running the NHS with...
Comprehensive analysis should be carried out to assess the safety of running the NHS with the limited latent capacity that it currently has, particularly in Intensive Care Units, critical care units and high dependency units.
Government Response
Comprehensive analysis should be carried out to assess the safety of running the NHS with the limited latent capacity that it currently has, particularly in Intensive Care Units, critical care … Read more
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17 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Building on the experience of staff working more flexibly during the pandemic and to enable...
Building on the experience of staff working more flexibly during the pandemic and to enable more flexible staffing in the NHS, NHS England and Health Education England should develop proposals to better enable NHS staff to change clinical specialty mid- … Read more
Government Response
Building on the experience of staff working more flexibly during the pandemic and to enable more flexible staffing in the NHS, NHS England and Health Education England should develop proposals … Read more
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18 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
During the first three months of the covid pandemic, the UK followed the wrong policy...
During the first three months of the covid pandemic, the UK followed the wrong policy in its use of non-pharmaceutical interventions. When the UK moved from the ‘contain’ to ‘delay’ stage, there was a policy of seeking to only moderate … Read more
Government Response
In the early days of a crisis, scientific advice may be necessarily uncertain: data may be unavailable, knowledge limited and time may be required for analysis to be conducted. In … Read more
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19 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The flattening the curve policy was implemented by introducing new restrictions only gradually and slowly,...
The flattening the curve policy was implemented by introducing new restrictions only gradually and slowly, acting as if the spread of the virus were susceptible to calibrated control. Modelling at the time suggested that to suppress the spread of covid-19 … Read more
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20 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
There are several possible explanations for what was a significant error in policy and advice...
There are several possible explanations for what was a significant error in policy and advice early in the pandemic. These include: • the lack of adequate data on the spread of covid-19, as a result of the inadequacy of the … Read more
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21 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Science proceeds through challenge and disputation, and new theories are tested unflinchingly against evidence.
Science proceeds through challenge and disputation, and new theories are tested unflinchingly against evidence. Yet Ministers and other advisers reported that they felt it difficult to challenge the views of their official scientific advisers. Those in Government have a duty … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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22 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The second wave of covid infections, hospitalisations and deaths during the autumn and winter of...
The second wave of covid infections, hospitalisations and deaths during the autumn and winter of 2020/21 was significantly driven by the emergence of a new variant, known as the Kent or Alpha variant. It is likely that a “circuit break” … Read more
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23 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Government public health communications are key to the public’s understanding of and compliance with non-pharmaceutical...
Government public health communications are key to the public’s understanding of and compliance with non-pharmaceutical interventions. Initial messaging from the Government early in the pandemic was strong, effective and undoubtedly contributed to the success of the first lockdown. After the … Read more
Government Response
As the report points out, public health communications are key to the public’s understanding of and compliance with non-pharmaceutical interventions. Messaging from the government early in the pandemic was strong, … Read more
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24 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
In the early days of a crisis, scientific advice may be necessarily uncertain: data may...
In the early days of a crisis, scientific advice may be necessarily uncertain: data may be unavailable, knowledge limited and time may be required for analysis to be conducted. In these circumstances it may be appropriate to act quickly, on … Read more
Government Response
In the early days of a crisis, scientific advice may be necessarily uncertain: data may be unavailable, knowledge limited and time may be required for analysis to be conducted. In … Read more
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25 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
In future an approach of greater questioning and challenge should characterise the development of policy.
In future an approach of greater questioning and challenge should characterise the development of policy. Ministers should have the confidence to follow a scientific approach themselves—being prepared to take a more robust approach to questioning and challenging the advice given. … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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26 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
In bringing together many of the UK’s most accomplished scientists, SAGE became a very UK...
In bringing together many of the UK’s most accomplished scientists, SAGE became a very UK body. In future, it should include more representation and a wider range of disciplines, from other countries, especially those which have experienced, or are experiencing, … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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27 Recommendation
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
In a pandemic, the scientific advice from the SAGE co-chairs to the Government should be...
In a pandemic, the scientific advice from the SAGE co-chairs to the Government should be published within 24 hours of it being given, or the policy being decided, whichever is the later, to ensure the opportunity for rapid scientific challenge … Read more
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28 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The Government, via the World Health Organisation, should make the case for an international standard...
The Government, via the World Health Organisation, should make the case for an international standard of reporting covid-19 deaths and a framework for reporting disease related deaths for future pandemics. (Paragraph 162) Testing and contact tracing
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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29 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Despite being one of the first countries in the world to develop a test for...
Despite being one of the first countries in the world to develop a test for covid in January 2020, the United Kingdom failed to translate that scientific leadership into operational success in establishing an effective test and trace system during … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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30 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Testing capacity was treated too much as a parameter rather than a variable that could...
Testing capacity was treated too much as a parameter rather than a variable that could be changed by the Department of Health and Social Care and scientific advisers. What was being achieved in other countries, particularly East Asia, appeared to … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. The government agrees that there is positive learning and engagement to be had with other countries, practitioners, and disciplines, as it has done since … Read more
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31 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The resulting requirement to abandon testing people in the community during the critical early period...
The resulting requirement to abandon testing people in the community during the critical early period of the pandemic cost many lives for a number of reasons including because: a) many asymptomatic carriers were not tested and therefore identified and asked … Read more
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32 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The new Test and Trace operation eventually established in May 2020 was a step in...
The new Test and Trace operation eventually established in May 2020 was a step in the right direction but set up much too late. Because of that delay there was huge pressure to get results quickly which meant that it … Read more
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33 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Vast sums of taxpayers’ money were directed to Test and Trace, justified by the benefits...
Vast sums of taxpayers’ money were directed to Test and Trace, justified by the benefits of avoiding further lockdowns. But ultimately those lockdowns happened. Were it not for the success of the Vaccine Taskforce and the NHS vaccination programme, it … Read more
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34 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
We recognise that the effectiveness of test and trace in reducing transmission is likely to...
We recognise that the effectiveness of test and trace in reducing transmission is likely to be reduced when the prevalence of the virus is high, as highlighted by Professor Whitty and others, but it is clear from the latest data … Read more
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35 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The Test and Trace organisation has not, despite its branding, been run by the NHS,...
The Test and Trace organisation has not, despite its branding, been run by the NHS, and has seen senior executives brought in from external bodies for short term contracts which reduces the institutional learning, from what was an intense period, … Read more
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36 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Partly because it was set up too late, NHS Test and Trace ultimately fell short...
Partly because it was set up too late, NHS Test and Trace ultimately fell short of the expectations set for it. It has failed to make a significant enough impact on the course of the pandemic to justify the level … Read more
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37 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The National Audit Office has stated that “to achieve value for money NHST&T must be...
The National Audit Office has stated that “to achieve value for money NHST&T must be able to demonstrate both that the interventions it delivers are effective in achieving its objective, and that the mix of interventions is the most cost-effective … Read more
Government Response
Scientific excellence is not enough in test and trace programmes: the UK must develop greater operational competence in deployment. In particular, the government must ensure that both the new UK … Read more
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38 Recommendation
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Scientific excellence is not enough in test and trace programmes: the UK must develop greater...
Scientific excellence is not enough in test and trace programmes: the UK must develop greater operational competence in deployment. In particular, the Government must ensure that both the new UK Health Security Agency and local authorities have the capability and … Read more
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39 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Public Health England and its successor bodies, as well as Ministers and their scientific advisers,...
Public Health England and its successor bodies, as well as Ministers and their scientific advisers, should be more willing to study and emulate the practice of other countries with urgency and agility, especially during a crisis. A culture must be … Read more
Government Response
Public Health England and its successor bodies, as well as Ministers and their scientific advisers, should be more willing to study and emulate the practice of other countries with urgency … Read more
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40 Recommendation
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Those responsible for future test and trace programmes should establish a culture and processes to...
Those responsible for future test and trace programmes should establish a culture and processes to learn rapidly from errors and to act to prevent them being repeated.
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41 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The reactive, short-term horizon of test and trace for much of the pandemic must be...
The reactive, short-term horizon of test and trace for much of the pandemic must be replaced by a capacity for anticipation and preparation—even during the course of an emergency.
Government Response
The reactive, short-term horizon of test and trace for much of the pandemic must be replaced by a capacity for anticipation and preparation—even during the course of an emergency.
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42 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The organisation of the bodies responsible for testing and tracing should be open and transparent...
The organisation of the bodies responsible for testing and tracing should be open and transparent both about their operations and the basis of their decisions. (Paragraph 245) Social care
Government Response
The organisation of the bodies responsible for testing and tracing should be open and transparent both about their operations and the basis of their decisions.
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43 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The covid-19 pandemic has put massive strain on a social care sector already under huge...
The covid-19 pandemic has put massive strain on a social care sector already under huge pressure, which has a particular focus on caring for elderly people who have been at the greatest risk of death from covid.
Government Response
The government recognises and has responded to the impact of the pandemic on the social care sector. The Prime Minister’s announcement of the ‘Build Back Better’ plan for health and … Read more
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44 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Social care had a less prominent voice in Government during the early stages of the...
Social care had a less prominent voice in Government during the early stages of the pandemic than did the NHS.
Government Response
The government recognises and has responded to the impact of the pandemic on the social care sector. The Prime Minister’s announcement of the ‘Build Back Better’ plan for health and … Read more
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45 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The discharge of elderly people from NHS hospitals into care homes without having been tested...
The discharge of elderly people from NHS hospitals into care homes without having been tested at the beginning of the pandemic—while understandable as the NHS prepared to accept a surge of covid patients—had the unintended consequence of contributing to the … Read more
Government Response
The government recognises and has responded to the impact of the pandemic on the social care sector. The Prime Minister’s announcement of the ‘Build Back Better’ plan for health and … Read more
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46 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Staff shortages, the lack of testing, difficulties in obtaining PPE and the design of care...
Staff shortages, the lack of testing, difficulties in obtaining PPE and the design of care settings to enable communal living hampered isolation and infection control and the ability to keep covid at bay. Social care staff in care homes and … Read more
Government Response
The government recognises and has responded to the impact of the pandemic on the social care sector. The Prime Minister’s announcement of the ‘Build Back Better’ plan for health and … Read more
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47 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Many of these pressures on the social care sector—such as funding and workforce— are longstanding...
Many of these pressures on the social care sector—such as funding and workforce— are longstanding and must be resolved urgently. Pressures on the social care workforce are likely to be compounded this autumn by the mandate that people working in … Read more
Government Response
The government recognises and has responded to the impact of the pandemic on the social care sector. The Prime Minister’s announcement of the ‘Build Back Better’ plan for health and … Read more
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48 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Planning for future pandemics should have a more developed and explicit consideration of the intense...
Planning for future pandemics should have a more developed and explicit consideration of the intense interaction between the NHS and social care. The prominence of social care within the Department of Health and Social Care should be enhanced and Ministers … Read more
Government Response
The government accepts this recommendation. Recommendation 293 is about the need for planning for future pandemics to have a more developed and explicit consideration of the intense interaction between the … Read more
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49 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Long term reform of social care is overdue and should be pursued as a matter...
Long term reform of social care is overdue and should be pursued as a matter of urgency. The Government’s recent announcement on the future of social care is welcome, but the long-term future of the sector remains unresolved. We endorse … Read more
Government Response
The government accepts this recommendation. Recommendation 294 is about the need for long-term reform of social care to be pursued as a matter of urgency. The report endorses the Health … Read more
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50 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
We endorse the Health and Social Care Committee’s call for additional resources to be directed...
We endorse the Health and Social Care Committee’s call for additional resources to be directed to social care. That Committee has made the case for an increase of £7 billion a year by 2023/4. We note that despite the Government’s … Read more
Government Response
The government partially accepts this recommendation. Recommendation 295 is about endorsing the Health and Social Care Committee’s call for additional resources to be directed to social care and notes that … Read more
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51 Recommendation
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The Government should review the provision of infection prevention and control measures, including infection prevention...
The Government should review the provision of infection prevention and control measures, including infection prevention and control nurses, to social care and ensure that social care providers, particularly care homes, are able to conduct regular pandemic preparedness drills. The Government … Read more
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52 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The impact of covid-19 has been uneven across the population, with some sections of society...
The impact of covid-19 has been uneven across the population, with some sections of society suffering significantly higher illness and deaths than the nation as a whole.
Government Response
The government recognises that those from an ethnic minority background have been disproportionately affected, the government has taken action to support these groups at each stage of its COVID-19 response. … Read more
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53 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
During the initial phase of the pandemic Black, Asian and minority ethnic people experienced significantly...
During the initial phase of the pandemic Black, Asian and minority ethnic people experienced significantly higher levels of severe illness and death from covid than was typical the population as a whole. Research conducted so far suggests that the drivers … Read more
Government Response
The government recognises that those from an ethnic minority background have been disproportionately affected, the government has taken action to support these groups at each stage of its COVID-19 response. … Read more
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54 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Staff from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds are crucial to the NHS and care...
Staff from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds are crucial to the NHS and care sectors. The covid-19 pandemic has brought the experiences of these staff into sharp focus. It is telling that the first ten NHS staff to die … Read more
Government Response
The government accepts the recommendation to set out a strategy to secure a supply of appropriate PPE that works for all staff in the NHS and care sectors. These findings … Read more
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55 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
People with learning disabilities have experienced significantly higher death rates from covid-19 than the country...
People with learning disabilities have experienced significantly higher death rates from covid-19 than the country as a whole. Deaths have been especially high among younger adults with learning disabilities. Initial research suggests that people with learning disabilities entered the pandemic … Read more
Government Response
The government accepts this recommendation and recognises the importance of considering the specific needs of people with a learning disability, autistic people, and their families in health emergencies. Throughout the … Read more
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56 Conclusion
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
Although there was never national NHS guidance to apply “Do not attempt CPR” (DNACPR) notices...
Although there was never national NHS guidance to apply “Do not attempt CPR” (DNACPR) notices to people with learning disabilities, there have been widespread concerns that there were cases in which they have been issued inappropriately during the pandemic. Read more
Government Response
The government accepts this recommendation and recognises the importance of ensuring guidance on DNACPR decisions is clear and properly understood by all health and social care professionals as well as … Read more
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57 Recommendation
Third Report - Coronavirus: lesson…
The Government should ensure its ‘levelling up’ agenda includes specific policies to reduce health inequalities,...
The Government should ensure its ‘levelling up’ agenda includes specific policies to reduce health inequalities, with a particular focus on ensuring that certain groups, including people from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds, do not continue to face unequal health … Read more
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Correspondence 15 letters
22 May 2024 Professor Dame Jennifer Harries on the long term health impacts of covid infection amongst the vaccine hesitant 03.05.24
Parliament page
22 May 2024 Professor Dame Jennifer Harries (UKHSA) on vaccination data 16.05.24
Parliament page
27 Jan 2023 Correspondence from the Committee to Professor Dame Jenny Harries OBE in relation to Covid-19 Lessons Learnt
Parliament page
27 Jan 2023 Correspondence from the Committee to Neil O'Brien MP, Minister for Primary Care and Public Health in relation to Covid-19 Lessons Learnt
Parliament page
27 Jan 2023 Correspondence from the Committee to the Secretary of State for International Trade and President of the Board of Trade
Parliament page
13 Jan 2023 Correspondence from Professor Dame Jenny Harries regarding Coronavirus Lessons Learnt
Parliament page
13 Jan 2023 Correspondence from Neil O’Brien MP, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Primary Care and Public Health, regarding Coronavirus Lessons Learnt
Parliament page
14 Jan 2022 Correspondence from from the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care regarding the Government’s Response to the Health and Social Care Committee and Science and Technology Committee Joint Report: Coronavirus: Lessons Learned
Parliament page
27 Oct 2021 Correspondence from Rt Hon Sajid Javid MP, Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, relating to Coronavirus: Lessons Learnt
Parliament page
23 Jun 2021 Correspondence from the Chairs of the Science and Technology Committee and the Health and Social Care Committee to Rt Hon Matt Hancock MP, Secretary of State for Health re asymptomatic transmission
Parliament page
9 Jun 2021 Correspondence from Greg Clark MP and Jeremy Hunt MP to Dominic Cummings, Former Chief Adviser to the Prime Minister, regarding follow up evidence
Parliament page
13 Jan 2021 To committee Letter from the Deputy National Statistician on international comparisons of marotality rates
Parliament page
12 Jan 2021 To committee Letter from the National Clininical Director for Critical and Perioperative Care on the NHS national policy on DNRs
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23 Nov 2020 Correspondence from Baroness Dido Harding regarding oral evidence follow-up
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17 Nov 2020 From committee Joint Chair letter to Baroness Dido Harding following up from evidence session on Coronavirus: lessons learnt
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