Covid-19: Scientific Advice Debate

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Department: Cabinet Office

Covid-19: Scientific Advice

Baroness Blackwood of North Oxford Excerpts
Wednesday 17th June 2020

(3 years, 10 months ago)

Lords Chamber
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Lord True Portrait Lord True [V]
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My Lords, with the greatest respect, I am answering a Question about the SAGE meeting on 11 February. If Members wish to ask questions about further stages, I will have to reply to them in writing.

Baroness Blackwood of North Oxford Portrait Baroness Blackwood of North Oxford (Con) [V]
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My Lords, the Science and Technology Committee, on which I sit, has received a very sensible suggestion in evidence to our Covid-19 inquiry. It proposes establishing a working protocol for SAGE to clarify the relationship between scientific advice and political decisions, and to improve transparency of processes. It is modelled on the already effective protocols of ACMD and the investigatory powers committee. Does the Minister agree that this could be a sensible step forward? Would he meet the distinguished scientist who proposed it?

Lord True Portrait Lord True [V]
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My Lords, my noble friend makes a very valuable suggestion. I will make sure that it is drawn to the attention of my colleagues progressing this matter.