Oral Answers to Questions

Steve Brine Excerpts

Monday 15th March 2021 Commons Chamber

[Andrea Jenkyns (Morley and Outwood) (Con)]

What support his Department has provided to the NHS during the covid-19 outbreak.

[Steve Brine (Winchester) (Con)]

What support his Department has provided to the NHS during the covid-19 outbreak.

[The Minister for the Armed Forces (James Heappey)]

The work of our armed forces in supporting the covid response is popular around the country and popular in Parliament, too. Defence has supported the NHS through the construction of Nightingale hospitals, PPE distribution, planning and logistical support, scientific advice, testing and vaccine delivery. Currently, the Ministry of Defence is providing 199 medical personnel to regional NHS trusts, and 321 general duties personnel are providing a range of support tasks, including support to the ambulance services. Some 1,600 defence medical professionals are also embedded in the national health service.

--- Later in debate ---

[James Heappey]

I thank my hon. Friend for his comments, and I wholeheartedly join him in recognising the consistency and excellence of the support that the armed forces have provided to the United Kingdom both in the past and throughout the covid-19 pandemic. It is worth mentioning that, throughout times like this, they are not just working on homeland resilience but continue with the many jobs they have to do overseas to keep countries safe. It is an extraordinary effort, and it is right that they should be recognised in this way in the House.

[Steve Brine]

Will the Minister join me in thanking the 35 military personnel who continue to support the frontline team at South Central ambulance service, which serves my constituents? Will he confirm that the MOD will continue to be there by their side as we move towards the end of all national restrictions on 21 June?