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Written question asked by Steve Baker (Conservative) on Tuesday, 19 October 2021, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Friday, 22 October 2021 (named day). It was answered by Michael Ellis (Conservative) on Friday, 22 October 2021 on behalf of the Cabinet Office.

NHS: Coronavirus

Question

To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster and Minister for the Cabinet Office, with reference to the COVID-19 Response: Autumn and Winter Plan 2021, published on 14 September 2021, and the statement that in the event that the data suggests the NHS is likely to come under unsustainable pressure, the Government has prepared a Plan B for England, if he will define the data that would indicate that the NHS is likely to come under unsustainable pressure.

Answer

If data suggests the NHS is likely to come under unsustainable pressure, the Government has prepared a Plan B for England. The Government hopes not to have to implement Plan B. However, given the uncertainty, the Government set out details in the Autumn and Winter Plan 2021 so that the public and businesses know what to expect if further measures become necessary.

The Government will remain vigilant and monitor the data closely, using a wide range of evidence, as we have done throughout the pandemic. This includes case numbers, hospital admissions and occupancy, deaths, the ratio of cases to hospitalisations, the rate of growth in cases and hospital admissions - particularly in the over 65s.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
58836
Session
2021-22
Related items
Deposited Paper DEP2021-0758
Tuesday, 14 September 2021
Deposited papers
House of Commons
Registered interest declared
Yes
Transferred
Yes
Subjects
Disease control NHS Coronavirus
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk