Laura Sharman 03 April 2020

Hancock pledges 100,000 coronavirus tests a day

The Government has promised that 100,000 coronavirus tests will be carried out every day by the end of the month in England.

The new five-point plan will bring together government, industry, academia, and the NHS and many others, to dramatically increase the number of tests being carried out each day.

By mid April, 25,000 tests a day will be carried out in PHE labs and NHS hospitals for those with a medical need and the most critical workers.

The Government will also work with manufacturers to develop blood testing that reveals if people have the right antibodies to provide high levels of immunity to coronavirus.

Trade union Unison warned the Government should not 'overpromise' on what can be achieved.

General secretary Dave Prentis said: 'Testing is key in the fight against the virus. It’s clear the UK isn’t doing enough. We can’t waste another minute.

'But the government must be realistic about what’s possible and not overpromise. Delivering over the coming weeks will be crucial to how both frontline staff and the wider public view the government’s ability to manage the crisis.'

Devolution and putting place first image

Devolution and putting place first

The real lesson of Andy Burnham's Makerfield success, argues Dr Jonathan Carr-West, is that place – not personality – is the key to Britain's future.
SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

HGV & Municipal Vehicle Technician

Ribble Valley Borough Council
£38,000 per annum
The maintenance is undertaken in the Council’s vehicle workshop on the Salthill Industrial Estate, Clitheroe. Clitheroe, Lancashire
Recuriter: Ribble Valley Borough Council

Ecologist

North Yorkshire Council
£34,434 - £38,220 per annum pro rata
The Council’s Planning Services play a fundamental role in managing the natural and built environment Scarborough, North Yorkshire
Recuriter: North Yorkshire Council

Group Leader Plans & Environment M200

Charnwood Borough Council
Grade MGT5 (SCP 146-149) £57,869 - £62,052 + £4,000 Annual Market Supplement until 13 March 2028 (pay award pending)
Charnwood is a vibrant and exciting borough with a population of 183,000 located between the three cities of Leicester, Nottingham and Derby. Charnwood
Recuriter: Charnwood Borough Council

Project Manager

Durham County Council
£50,269 to £54,495 p.a. (Grade 14) Pay Award Pending
An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Project Manager to join the Digital Programme and Communities team. If you have extensive experience in lead Durham
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Education Welfare Officer

Durham County Council
£28,142 - £31,022 pro rata
Required from September 2026 We are looking for an Education Welfare Officer to work with our pastoral team. The objective of the team is to ensure t Durham
Recuriter: Durham County Council
Linkedin Banner