Overview

This bill mandates an independent review of disability potentially caused by COVID-19 vaccines in the UK. The review will assess the extent of vaccine-related disability, the effectiveness of monitoring and responses, the adequacy of compensation, and the overall efficacy of the current compensation system. The review will also consider the cost-benefit analysis of providing no-fault compensation and its impact on public trust in vaccines.

Description

The bill requires the Secretary of State to appoint a High Court judge (current or former) within 30 days of the bill's passage to lead this independent review. The review must examine:

• The rates and extent of disability linked to each COVID-19 vaccine used in the UK.
• The effectiveness of the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency's (MHRA) monitoring of side effects, and the NHS and government's responses.
• The adequacy of compensation provided to those disabled by the vaccines.
• The effectiveness of the Vaccine Damage Payments Act 1979, particularly its 60% disablement threshold.

The review will assess the costs and benefits of providing compensation without proving fault, considering the effect on public confidence in vaccination programs. A report with recommendations for legislative or policy changes must be submitted to Parliament within 90 days of the judge's appointment, with the government's response following within 30 days.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't specify a budget. However, depending on the review's findings and recommendations, significant government spending could result from potential changes to the compensation scheme, potentially involving substantial payouts to those deemed disabled by COVID-19 vaccines.

Groups Affected

This bill may affect:

• Individuals claiming vaccine-related disability: The review could lead to changes in compensation eligibility and amounts.
• The MHRA and NHS: The review will assess their effectiveness in monitoring and responding to vaccine side effects.
• The UK Government: The government will be responsible for funding the review and potentially implementing its recommendations, which could significantly impact public finances.
• The public: The outcome of the review and any changes to the compensation scheme or vaccination strategy could influence public confidence in future vaccination programs.

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