Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:
To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what scientific evidence was used to support the policy that covid-19 tests were not provided to care homes with residents under 65.
We initially prioritised testing for homes that specialise in caring for older people and those living with dementia in line with Public Health England and Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies advice, as they are at higher risk of adverse consequences if they get the virus.
All adult care homes can now access whole care home testing for all residents and asymptomatic staff through a digital portal.