The UK Covid-19 Inquiry has opened its fifth investigation: Procurement across the UK - Module 5 - with public hearings scheduled for early 2025.

Module 5 will examine the procurement and distribution of essential healthcare equipment and supplies throughout the United Kingdom, including personal protective equipment (PPE), ventilators, and oxygen. Additionally, it will review the UK-wide procurement of lateral flow tests and PCR tests. Further details are available within the provisional scope for Module 5.

Core Participants are granted access to evidence pertinent to this investigation, the opportunity to make opening and closing statements at Inquiry hearings, and the ability to suggest lines of questioning.

Preliminary hearings for Module 5 are anticipated to take place in early 2024 at the Inquiry’s Hearing Centre at Dorland House, London. These hearings are open to the public, and information on attendance can be found on the Inquiry’s website.

During preliminary hearings, the Inquiry Chair will make decisions regarding the conduct of the investigations. 

Evidence will not be presented at these hearings, and submissions from the Counsel to the Inquiry and Core Participants will be made to assist in preparing for the subsequent public hearings, where evidence will be heard.