Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, for what reason the Primary Care Medical Director for NHS England was not told in advance of the announcement on 30 May 2020 of the new guidance issued by the Government for people shielding and classed as extremely clinically vulnerable to covid-19; when NHS England were informed directly of the new guidance; what consultation was undertaken with key stakeholders representing GPs and charities prior to making the decision set out in the changed guidance; and if he will make a statement.

It is factually untrue to suggest that NHS England were not aware of the shielding guidance being updated. We have engaged extensively with partners and the healthcare system, including NHS England and NHS Digital, throughout this process and will continue to do so.