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Written question asked by Lord Fuller (Conservative) on Monday, 13 April 2026, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Monday, 27 April 2026. It was answered by Baroness Merron (Labour) on Wednesday, 29 April 2026 on behalf of the Department of Health and Social Care.

Chemicals: Supply Chains

Question

To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the security of supply for chemicals such as methacrylates, ethylene, propylene and acrylonitrile required for vaccine production, personal protective equipment, and medical-grade materials in the light of supply chain disruption caused by the Iran conflict.

Answer

The Department is closely monitoring the Middle East conflict to assess any potential impact on United Kingdom medical supply chains. This includes ongoing discussion with industry partners about potential impacts on necessary raw materials and finished products used in healthcare.

We maintain well‑established contingency arrangements to manage supply disruptions where these occur. These can include coordination of mutual aid, work to identify alternative products, alternative clinical practices, regulatory easements, and/or use of the Express Freight Service which can provide bespoke global logistics services in the event of critical supply disruption.

We will continue to engage industry and health system partners to identify and mitigate any potential impact on patient care.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
HL16199
Session
2024-26
Grouped for answer
Yes
Subjects
Armed conflict Chemicals Iran Supply chains Medical equipment
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk