Matt Hancock: "Our goal is to protect life"
16 March 2020
As the UK number of Coronavirus cases increases Matt Hancock has updated MPs in the House of Commons on the Government's action plan to "contain, delay, research and mitigate the virus".
The update follows the Prime Minister's public statement earlier today.
Matt Hancock: "Our policy is to fight this virus with everything we've got"
The Health Secretary, Matt Hancock, made a statement in the House of Commons on measures to address the Coronavirus outbreak saying, "These actions will change the ordinary lives of everyone in this country"
He updated the House on measures relating to social contact and isolation, he also updated the House on testing for the virus and the provision of ventilation equipment for the NHS saying, "We'll give the NHS whatever it needs and we'll do whatever it takes."
The Minister announced that the Coronavirus Emergency Measures Bill will be introduced to Parliament on Thursday 19 March
Find more information about the Government's guidance on Coronavirus (COVID-19) on the Department of Health website:
Johnathan Ashworth: "Every one of our constituents want to do the right thing"
Shadow Minister for Health and Social Care, Jonathan Ashworth endorsed the Government's measures and pressed the Health Secretary for more details. He asked how the measures would work in practice for those unable to work from home and what protections are in place those in greater need.
He finished by saying, "From sick pay and lost earnings protection, to Universal Credit changes, to rent and mortgage payment deferrals, we need a package of financial support."
Find out more
- Watch Parliament TV: Statement on COVID-19
- Transcripts of proceedings in the House of Commons Chamber are available in Hansard online three hours after they happen.
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