Overview

This Bill proposes a review into providing financial assistance to individuals disabled by Covid-19 vaccines and the next of kin of those who died shortly after vaccination. It mandates a government report to Parliament on a potential no-fault compensation scheme, including eligibility criteria and cost implications, and amends the Limitation Act 1980 to extend the time limit for related legal actions.

Description

The Bill initiates a review led by a High Court judge to assess the costs and benefits of a no-fault compensation scheme for Covid-19 vaccine-related disability or death. The review will consider:

• The nature and extent of vaccine-induced disability.
• Adequacy of existing compensation.
• Compensation for next of kin.
• Effectiveness of the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency and the NHS.
• Impact on Universal Credit.
• Efficacy of the Vaccine Damage Payments Act 1979.
• Criteria for assessing disablement, including psychological conditions.
• Potential upper limits on financial assistance.
• Eligibility criteria.
• Payment in cases without alternative causes.
• Impact on public confidence in vaccination.

The Secretary of State must then present the review's findings and the government's response to Parliament. The Bill also requires the Secretary of State to propose a financial assistance scheme within six months, subject to a 12-week consultation period. Finally, it amends the Limitation Act 1980, extending the time limit for legal action related to Covid-19 vaccine injury or death to six years from the date of knowledge (or death).

Government Spending

The bill does not specify exact figures for government spending. The cost of any compensation scheme arising from the review will depend on the findings and recommendations of the review and the government's response. The financial implications are therefore unknown at this stage.

Groups Affected

• Individuals with disabilities potentially caused by Covid-19 vaccines: May receive financial assistance under a new scheme.
• Next of kin of individuals who died shortly after Covid-19 vaccination: May receive financial compensation.
• The NHS: The review will assess their role in diagnosing and treating adverse reactions.
• The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA): The review will assess their effectiveness in identifying and publicising adverse reactions.
• Department of Health and Social Care: Responsible for implementing the review's recommendations and creating a potential compensation scheme.
• The Treasury: Will be responsible for funding the compensation scheme.
• Those seeking legal redress for vaccine injuries or deaths: The extended time limit under the Limitation Act affects their ability to pursue legal action.

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