When it will publish its response to the UK COVID-19 Inquiry’s Module 4 report on vaccines and therapeutics across the UK.

The Scottish Government has today published its response to the UK Covid-19 Inquiry’s Module 4 report. The Scottish Government is grateful to the Inquiry and all those involved in producing such a detailed and thorough examination of vaccines and therapeutics.The Covid-19 pandemic touched every community in Scotland and left a lasting impact on individuals, families and public services. As we publish our response to the Inquiry's Module 4 report, we take this opportunity to remember those who lost their lives, acknowledge those who continue to live with the consequences of the pandemic, and recognise the suffering experienced by so many across the country.Vaccines and therapeutics played a critical role in protecting lives, reducing serious illness and supporting our recovery from Covid-19. The speed with which safe and effective vaccines were developed and delivered was unprecedented and demonstrated what can be achieved through collaboration between governments, public health agencies, researchers, healthcare professionals, industry and communities. It is essential we build on these achievements, whilst also learning from the challenges and inequalities highlighted by the Inquiry.We are particularly grateful to those who shared personal experiences and evidence with the Inquiry. Their contributions have provided invaluable insight into the realities of the pandemic and have helped ensure that lessons for the future are grounded in the experiences of those most affected. We also want to acknowledge the vital work of the Covid Inquiries Response Engagement Group, whose input to the response has been invaluable. The insights shared by representatives of groups disproportionately impacted by the pandemic, including bereaved families, disabled people, minority ethnic communities, older people and others most affected by the pandemic have shaped our response.The report's recommendations provide an important opportunity to strengthen our preparedness for future public health emergencies, reduce inequalities and build on the achievements of Scotland's vaccination programme. The Scottish Government welcomes the recommendations and remains committed to working collaboratively with partners across Scotland and the UK to build a more resilient, equitable and responsive system that protects the health and wellbeing of everyone in Scotland.The Scottish Government will provide regular progress updates on the actions set out within the response. The response is available at: https://www.gov.scot/isbn/9781807756307