§ Lord Marlesfordasked Her Majesty's Government:
How many doses of anti-smallpox vaccine are held in the United Kingdom; and what plans they have to increase that quantity. [HL3008]
§ Lord Hunt of Kings HeathStrategic stocks of smallpox vaccine are held which could be rapidly deployed to contain any outbreak. However, it is not our policy to provide details concerning quantities of vaccine as this information could aid planning of a bioterrorist attack.
The United Kingdom policy on future smallpox vaccine manufacture is currently under review. The Department of Health is working closely with the Ministry of Defence in determining the UK's vaccine needs. We are also in discussions with other governments about stocks of vaccine.