Many local people across North East Bedfordshire have been concerned about the availability of tests.
Commenting, Richard said:
“I understand the frustration and anxiety when people need a test but then have difficulties trying to access one. We know that the government is working urgently to increase testing capacity and I have been raising local concerns with the Health Secretary, Matt Hancock. Although the vast majority of people are able to get tested and near to their home without problems, we have seen an increase in the virus and more people wanting tests which has increased pressure on capacity."
The UK is providing more tests per head of population than any other comparable European countries - per thousand people, the UK are testing 2.54, Germany 1.88, Spain 1.91 and France 1.89.
Richard added:
"Understandably, people will care more about their own experience than the overall statistics and that is why the Prime Minister has been clear that we need to improve.
“The government is increasing the number of testing sites and it has announced the addition of four new laboratories in order to be able to process 500,000 tests by the end of October. The Health Secretary will also be setting out a plan for prioritisation in the coming days to ensure those that most need tests can access them. Ultimately, everyone has a role in controlling the spread of the virus – which is why it’s very important people remember the basics – wash your hands, cover your face and maintain space”
Capacity has been increased by 10 per cent in the last few weeks and four new Lighthouse Labs in Newport, Newcastle, Charnwood and Brant’s Bridge have been established, bringing in more than 300 additional staff for labs, increasing testing sites to 500 and buying up more capacity abroad.
For information on when you should get a test, please visit this page.
