Chi Onwurah MP, Labour’s Shadow Science Minister, responding to reports that scientists felt they were being used as “human shields”, said:

“In advising the Government on the complex and evolving science of the Covid-19 epidemic Britain’s world leading scientists and researchers are performing a huge service to all of us.

“But the Government must not use scientific advice as a shield to place political and resourcing decisions beyond scrutiny and it must be clear where its responsibilities lie.

“Scientists did not advise delays in providing NHS and care workers with personal protective equipment. Labour is calling on the Government to share all of its scientific advice with the Leader of the Opposition, so political decisions can be properly scrutinised.”