Rachel Reeves MP, Shadow Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, responding to news that the NHS is within hours of running out of personal protective gowns and have been told to use other aprons and clothing commented:

“NHS and social care workers are being put in an impossible position to protect themselves or care for patients.

“Many British small textile and clothing manufacturers have come forward to help produce what is needed and must be mobilised in the national effort to produce the protective clothing and equipment that is so desperately needed on the front line.

“The government has been too slow to get a grip.”