The House of Lords Science and Technology Committee launches an
inquiry into various scientific and technological aspects of the
COVID-19 pandemic.
Background
The focus of this inquiry will be forward looking, aiming to help
Government and society learn from the current pandemic and better
prepare for future epidemics caused by this and other viruses.
The inquiry will begin with its first topic in the coming weeks
and is likely to last until December.
The Committee will take evidence from UK and international
experts on the scientific understanding of the SARS-CoV-2 virus,
as well as the technology involved in preventing, diagnosing and
treating the virus. The Committee will seek to identify
research opportunities in epidemiology, medical care and basic
science. It does not intend to cover the political, economic and
social implications of the crisis, which are being addressed by
other Parliamentary Committees.
The Committee will be advised by Professor Sir Robert Lechler,
President of the Academy of Medical Sciences and Vice Principal
(Health) at King’s College London.
Chair's comments
Chair of the Committee,, said:
"There are so many statements about COVID-19 that conflict with
each other, which can increase public anxiety. This inquiry will
look at the facts, focusing on what we do know about this virus,
identifying the gaps in our knowledge and how science can help.
“We will examine the issues at the heart o…
Scope
In order to reach rapid and useful conclusions, the Committee
will take oral evidence, but not issue a call for written
evidence. However, the Committee does welcome concise (one-page)
submissions of scientific evidence related to the following
areas:
Virology and research needs
- The nature of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, including its structure,
genome, antigenic properties and likely origin.
Epidemiology, modelling and testing
- The modes of transmission of the virus among people,
including modelling of the epidemiology and the impact of
social-distancing policies on the spread.
- Diagnostic tests for the virus, including PCR (nucleic acid)
tests and antibody tests: their accuracy, reliability, supply and
distribution.
Vaccines and treatments
- Vaccines, including obstacles to be overcome in the case of
SARS-CoV-2 and methods for speeding up and increasing the success
rate of vaccine development.
- Therapeutic treatments for COVID-19, including antiviral
drugs, monoclonal antibodies and convalescent plasma.
Technology and global preparedness
- Digital technology and data analytics, including the role
they can play in testing and tracing contacts and implications
for privacy.
The following are the 14 current committee
members:
, chair (Crossbench)
(Conservative)
(Conservative)
(Labour)
(Labour)
(Labour)
(Crossbench)
(Crossbench)
(Crossbench)
(Conservative)
(Conservative)
(Liberal Democrat)
(Liberal Democrat)
(Labour)
