Question reference: S6W-05020
- Asked by: Siobhian Brown, MSP for Ayr, Scottish National Party
- Date lodged: 23 December 2021
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Current status: Answered by Humza Yousaf on 5 January 2022
Question
To ask the Scottish Government what its position is on whether the contract for Valneva COVID-19 vaccines should be reinstated and what representations it can make to the UK Government in this regard, in light of reports that a number of experts, including a member of the Joint Committee on Vaccines and Immunisation, have expressed support for the Valneva vaccine as possibly an effective defence against the COVID-19 Omicron variant.
Answer
COVID vaccines are procured by the UK Government on a four nations basis, and the cancellation of the contract with Valneva is a matter for the UK Government. Valneva is a valued contributor to our life sciences sector and the Livingston facility is an important asset, developing vaccines for the treatment of many infectious diseases and supporting high quality jobs. This includes their COVID-19 vaccine, and I welcome the positive results Valneva has reported from clinical trials. I met with Valneva last week to hear more about their COVID-19 vaccine and the impressive work underway at their Livingston facility. Ministers and Scottish Enterprise are in advanced discussions with the company to agree a package of support which would underpin the company’s operations in Scotland.
The Scottish Government will continue to be guided by the Joint Committee on Vaccinations and Immunisations in deploying vaccines in the face of Omicron. In line with the JCVI’s advice, the best defence against the virus is for everyone who is eligible for a booster to come forward now, alongside following the Scottish Government’s guidance on testing, face coverings and restrictions.