The chair of the UK covid-19 inquiry has today published the inquiry’s module 4 report, which examines the development and implementation of vaccines and therapeutics during the pandemic.
The chair recognises that the UK authorised and deployed effective vaccines and treatments at unprecedented speed. These achievements reflect the strength of the UK’s world-leading life sciences sector, the universal public health system in each of the four nations, which allowed whole population delivery of vaccines, and the extraordinary dedication of health and care staff. They also speak to the collective resolve of the public in coming forward to be vaccinated.
I would like to thank all those involved in this national effort—scientists, researchers, regulators, NHS and social care staff, volunteers, and all those who supported the roll-out of vaccines and treatments at pace.
The inquiry identifies the following areas for further work: strengthening manufacturing capability, sustaining investment in research and development, and developing the vaccine damage payment scheme. It also notes disparities in vaccine uptake among certain communities and the risk of vaccine hesitancy, underlining the importance of building public confidence.
The Government remain committed to learning the lessons from the inquiry and to strengthen our preparedness for the future.
I would like to thank Baroness Hallett and her team for their work on this report. The Government will consider their findings and recommendations, working closely with colleagues across the devolved Governments, and respond in due course.
I have laid a copy of the report before both Houses of Parliament.
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