As we move on from the pandemic, the Government has rightly changed focus from legal regulation and towards guidance and advice.
I am proud of the incredible testing and diagnostics capacity that has been built in the UK over the course of the pandemic, which is the biggest in Europe, and I want to ensure there are safeguards in place to allow the public to follow the guidance safely and effectively.
I have therefore raised a Parliamentary Question on the potential market distortions in the sale of covid-19 lateral flow tests. I understand that the Government is working with retailers and pharmacies to help establish a private market in testing to ensure those who wish to purchase them can still do so.
You can read the full Ministerial response here: https://questions-statements.parliament.uk/written-questions/detail/2022-03-07/135670
As a result, I understand from 1st April, free universal symptomatic and asymptomatic testing provision will end in England. However, there will be limited symptomatic testing for a small number of at-risk groups (with more details on the eligible groups to follow), and free asymptomatic testing will remain available to social care staff.
In response to a Parliamentary Question, Health Minister Gillian Keegan stated;
“The regular asymptomatic testing regime in adult social care after 1 April 2022 is currently under review and we will set out further details in due course. Until 1 April, testing for visitors to care homes should currently align with current guidance on testing in care homes.”
https://questions-statements.parliament.uk/written-questions/detail/2022-03-07/135437
I recognise that while the vast majority of people cared for in care homes are vaccinated, the risk of transmission and hospitalisation from Covid-19 remains higher than in the general population. I have therefore raised constituent concerns with the Department for Health and Social Care, noting the personal difficulties many are experiencing with the rise in the cost of living.
If you would like sight of the eventual Ministerial response, please let me know.
From the large amount of correspondence I have received on this issue, I understand this is of concern to many constituents who visit or care for vulnerable family members. The Government continues to review all Covid-19 measures for social care in line with the latest scientific advice and I await further details with interest.