Government under fire for sending vital PPE to China

The British government have been criticised for sending personal protective equipment (PPE) to China, despite a huge shortage of the vital equipment for NHS staff.

The UK government sent over 270,000 pieces of PPE to China in February to help the country tackle coronavirus, the UK having depleted resources, The Sunday Times reported.

Michael Gove was asked whether this statement was true, he said, “We did send protective equipment to China.

“But I think it’s important to stress two things there as well.

“The first thing is that the personal protection equipment that we sent to China was to help with the most extreme outbreak in Wuhan.

“That personal protection equipment was not from our pandemic stock. And, also we have received far more from China in personal protective equipment than we have given.”

The government has separate come under fire again on Sunday as the much-needed shipment of life saving vital equipment is now delayed from Turkey, which should have arrived today.

Health Secretary Matt Hancock is facing an urgent emergency within the NHS.

It was reported on Sunday that a shipment of personal protective equipment (PPE) was due to arrive today from Turkey, Sky News understands.

The Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick said on Saturday that a shipment is due which will alleviate the pressures doctors and nurses are facing.

Announcing the PPE delivery from Turkey on Saturday, Robert Jenrick said, “Demand is extremely high and quantities are in huge demand internationally but we will continue to work as hard as we can.

“Those healthcare workers who are on the front line again should know that we completely understand their anxiety and we are doing all we can to try and get them the equipment that they need as quickly as possible.”