Overview

This bill mandates an independent review into the disablement caused by Covid-19 vaccinations in the UK. The review will assess the extent of vaccine-related disability, the effectiveness of current monitoring and responses, the adequacy of compensation, and the efficacy of existing compensation legislation. It will also consider the costs and benefits of a no-fault compensation system.

Description

The bill requires the Secretary of State to appoint a current or former High Court judge to lead the independent review within 30 days of the bill becoming law. The review must consider:

• Rates and extent of disablement from each Covid-19 vaccine used in the UK.
• Effectiveness of the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) monitoring, and NHS and government responses.
• Adequacy of compensation offered to those disabled by vaccines.
• Efficacy of the Vaccine Damage Payments Act 1979, particularly its 60% disablement threshold.

The review must assess the costs and benefits of no-fault compensation, considering its impact on public confidence in vaccination programs. The appointed judge must produce a report with recommendations for legislative or policy changes. The Secretary of State must present this report to Parliament within 90 days of the judge's appointment and respond within a further 30 days.

Government Spending

The bill does not specify a budget for the independent review. The ultimate cost will depend on the scope and length of the review, and any subsequent policy changes resulting from its recommendations. Potential costs include the judge's fees, administrative expenses, and any potential increase in compensation payouts.

Groups Affected

Groups potentially affected include:

• Individuals experiencing vaccine-related disablement: The review could lead to changes in compensation schemes, potentially affecting their access to financial support.
• The NHS and Government: The review will assess their response to vaccine side effects and may lead to changes in policy and procedures.
• The MHRA: The review will examine the effectiveness of its monitoring of vaccine side effects, potentially leading to changes in regulatory practices.
• The Public: The review's findings and recommendations will influence public confidence in vaccination programmes.
• Taxpayers: Increased compensation payouts resulting from the review's recommendations could lead to higher taxes.

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