Published on April 2, 2020

Responding to news that the Government has issued updated guidance on Personal Protective Equipment for NHS staff, Liberal Democrat Health, Wellbeing and Social Care spokesperson Munira Wilson said:

“While it is right that stricter guidance is now in place to give staff the best possible protection, the Government’s chopping and changing of guidance on personal protective equipment does nothing to inspire confidence.

“The reality remains unchanged: many NHS workers lack anything close to adequate PPE. They are risking their own health, the health of their loved ones and their patients, as a result. Some have resorted to their own makeshift alternatives in the face of shortages, from skiing goggles as eye protection to turning old OHP slides into visors. This is simply not good enough.

“It is imperative that the Government lays out in no uncertain terms what it is doing to increase production of key equipment right here in the UK, and how it is seeking to import vital kit from abroad. We need to see evidence of action that has already been taken, and details of new steps the government will take to quickly plug the shortfall and keep all those who work in healthcare safe.”