Wales will take part in the largest ever UK wide pandemic response exercise this Autumn.
The commitment is part of the Welsh Government’s comprehensive response to the UK Covid-19 Inquiry’s first module published today, which examined the nation’s preparedness and resilience prior to the pandemic.
The response outlines the significant steps already taken to strengthen Wales’ emergency preparedness.
First Minister Eluned Morgan said:
“Our priority is to keep the people of Wales safe. We are committed to learning lessons from the pandemic and building on the existing foundations to ensure Wales is prepared for future emergencies.
“Over the past six months, we have worked with other devolved governments and the UK Government to carefully consider and begin the progress of implementing these important recommendations from the inquiry.
“We have taken action to improve our emergency response capabilities and will continue to build on this.
“This will include Wales playing a full role in the major exercise this Autumn to test the UK’s capabilities, plans and procedures to prepare for possible future pandemics.”
A new group is being established – the Wales Coordination Group – to oversee the planning and participation of Wales in the exercise. It will have representation from all key organisations involved at the national and local level, in recognition of the broad scope of the exercise.
