Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what guidance he has received on the risks posed by covid-19 to people aged 65 to 70; and for what reason the Government's policy on the shielding of people from covid-19 applies to people aged over 70.

The United Kingdom Government’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic has been guided by the advice of the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE) with the sole purpose of minimising loss of life. The Government has published the scientific advice given by SAGE which can be found at the following link:

https://www.gov.uk/government/groups/scientific-advisory-group-for-emergencies-sage-coronavirus-covid-19-response

It is important for everyone to follow the Government’s stay at home guidance to minimise the spread of COVID-19. In addition to social distancing measures for everyone it is important for those in the extremely vulnerable category to follow the guidance on shielding. People in this category will be contacted by the National Health Service by no later than 29 March to ensure they are aware. Shielding guidance has also been published online and can be found at the following link:

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/guidance-on-shielding-and-protecting-extremely-vulnerable-persons-from-covid-19/guidance-on-shielding-and-protecting-extremely-vulnerable-persons-from-covid-19