Wednesday 11th March 2020

(4 years, 9 months ago)

Commons Chamber
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Matt Hancock Portrait Matt Hancock
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I have heard some of the noises off. I merely encourage everybody to base their decisions and judgments on science, rather than politics.

Janet Daby Portrait Janet Daby (Lewisham East) (Lab)
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I thank the Health Secretary for his continued updates to the House. The partner of a constituent of mine suffers from cystic fibrosis and other related illnesses and requires daily treatment that includes cleansing—alcohol wipes, gels and so on—but because of the panic buying in some shops they have been unable to purchase these items, which could result in serious health issues for them. Are there any other measures the Government can put in place, working with supermarkets, to manage this?

Matt Hancock Portrait Matt Hancock
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Yes, absolutely; this is really important. We have some supplies of these sorts of things, in the supply chains and, in some cases, within the shops themselves, and we are working with the shops to ensure availability of things that can be critical to people’s care. We are working on that with DEFRA, the NHS and within the Department, particularly in relation to pharmacies, to make sure we get the right kit to the people who need it.