Kate Griffiths MP has raised concerns directly with the Prime Minister Boris Johnson that evidence suggests people from BAME communities are at a greater risk of dying from COVID-19. At a session of PMQs, Burton’s MP put this to the PM, specifically in relation to those working on the frontline, after several healthcare workers at University Hospitals of Derby and Burton sadly lost their lives.
Speaking from Burton as part of the hybrid Parliament, Kate said, “In Burton and Uttoxeter, and across the country, we have seen the incredible dedication of our NHS workers in dealing with covid-19—dedication that has tragically cost some their lives. What steps is the Prime Minister taking to ensure that the NHS is adhering to Public Health England calls to risk-assess black, Asian and minority ethnic staff on the frontline and where possible to make appropriate arrangements to move them to non-patient facing roles?
The Prime Minister responded saying, “It is obvious from the data that coronavirus is falling disproportionately on certain groups, and not just the elderly. We need to examine exactly what is happening. We need to protect all the most vulnerable groups, and we will take steps to ensure that NHS staff and others are properly protected, advised and screened.”
Kate will closely follow the steps the Government takes to protect NHS workers, particularly those in the BAME community.
