Source · Select Committees · Defence Committee
Recommendation 5
5
As the UK emerges from the pandemic, and in light of the UN Secretary General’s...
Recommendation
As the UK emerges from the pandemic, and in light of the UN Secretary General’s words that “in an interconnected world, none of us is safe until all of us are safe”, the Armed Forces may also have an important role to play in ensuring the vaccine reaches those in countries with less-robust healthcare systems or in areas of instability. We call on the government to ensure it makes best use of the Armed Forces’ skills in planning and logistics to assist with the distribution and administration of the coronavirus vaccine(s) within the UK, the Overseas Territories and perhaps further abroad. (Paragraph 42) Wider impacts and lessons learned
Government Response
Acknowledged
HM Government
Acknowledged
The Government’s top priority is to administer the COVID-19 vaccine as quickly as possible across the UK. Defence has worked tirelessly to support this effort, working closely with NHS England, the Devolved Administrations and government’s overseas to support the roll-out of COVID-19 vaccines. Defence has contributed by way of providing resources and capabilities to national vaccine programmes, both in terms of strategic planning and logistical support, as well as administering the vaccine to the public. The Armed Forces have also continued to support the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) throughout the pandemic providing a range of assistance to British Overseas Territories and HMG personnel working overseas. Most recently, this support has focussed on the use of Military Air Transport and vessels to transport vaccines overseas to our people. Defence will continue to work closely with the FCDO to ensure our Overseas Territories are supported throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Where surplus vaccine supplies may allow support to other countries’ vaccination efforts, Defence will work closely with the FCDO on identifying potential recipients and any logistical support that might be required.