Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask His Majesty's Government why a commissioning recommendation by NICE on Evusheld takes nearly a year to make; and whether they will expedite the appraisal of Evusheld by NICE by allocating it increased resources so the decision is made before 25 December.

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence’s (NICE) evaluation process usually takes approximately nine months and includes consideration of the available evidence from expert committees and engagement with interested parties.

Following an agreement with the manufacturer, NICE has expedited its appraisal by one month and expects to publish its draft guidance in April 2023. NICE will conduct the appraisal as quickly as possible while maintaining rigorous and impartial appraisal standards. We are working with NICE to explore options for further expediting the process, including determining any additional requirements from the manufacturer and other organisations.