Peter Dowd
Main Page: Peter Dowd (Labour - Bootle)Westminster Hall is an alternative Chamber for MPs to hold debates, named after the adjoining Westminster Hall.
Each debate is chaired by an MP from the Panel of Chairs, rather than the Speaker or Deputy Speaker. A Government Minister will give the final speech, and no votes may be called on the debate topic.
This information is provided by Parallel Parliament and does not comprise part of the offical record
Order. Just before the hon. Gentleman responds, I remind Members that the Minister will speak at quarter past 4. The Minister is entitled to 15 minutes. I know other Members wish to speak; however, that is the way we must operate. I remind the hon. Member of that.
Dr Chambers
I thank my hon. Friend for his intervention, and I am finishing up now, Mr Dowd.
Britain has always punched above its weight when it comes to science, health and compassion. We helped to eradicate smallpox. We led on vaccine distribution. We have the knowledge, compassion and credibility to lead again, if we choose to. During the covid-19 pandemic, we all waited for the science to catch up—for a vaccine and for hope. When it finally arrived, the world changed overnight. With HIV, TB and malaria, we do not have to wait. The science is already there. The treatments already exist. What is missing is the political will and the funding.