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Written question asked by Lord Strasburger (Liberal Democrat) on Wednesday, 13 May 2020, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 28 May 2020. It was answered by Lord Bethell (Conservative) on Wednesday, 20 May 2020 on behalf of the Department of Health and Social Care.


Contact Tracing: Software

Question

To ask Her Majesty's Government whether any person will be compelled to download or use the NHSX COVID-19 contact tracing application; and whether they will propose that it be a criminal offence (1) to require a person to download or use the app by refusing to sell goods or services, (2) to discriminate in employment or (3) to block entry to public premises because a person has not downloaded or is not using the app.

Answer

The app will be one of a number of tools we use in the fight against COVID-19 but it will be voluntary. People will always have a choice of whether or not to download the app and will be able to delete it whenever they like. We see the app as having most value where its use is voluntary and we will look at how we can work with employers and services on this.


Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
HL4449
Session
2019-21
Subjects
Software NHS Mobile phones Coronavirus Contact tracing
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk