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Questions and answers

Parliamentary questions can be asked by any MSP to the Scottish Government or the Scottish Parliamentary Corporate Body. The questions provide a means for MSPs to get factual and statistical information.

Written questions must be answered within 10 working days (20 working days during recess)
Other questions such as Topical, Portfolio, General and First Minister's Question Times are taken in the Chamber

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Question reference: S6W-01151

Asked by: Anas Sarwar, MSP for Glasgow, Scottish Labour
Date lodged: Thursday, 01 July 2021
Current Status: Answered by Maree Todd on 23 July 2021

To ask the Scottish Government whether the current COVID-19 testing capacity is sufficient to meet current and future demand.

The Scottish Government has established a comprehensive network of testing sites across the country enabling everyone in Scotland to access testing as required. This network includes Regional Testing Sites, Local Testing Sites, Mobile Testing Units, and small-scale test sites operated by the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service. Individuals are also able to access both PCR and Lateral Flow Tests at home, although all positive LFDs should be followed by a confirmatory PCR test. We have also established a programme of asymptomatic testing which includes regular testing for health and social care staff and community test sites where local individuals are invited for testing regardless of symptoms.

PCR samples are either processed through NHS Scotland labs, which includes the Regional Hub laboratories, or the UK National Testing Programme Laboratory Network, for which we receive a population based share. We work closely with the UK Government to ensure that the necessary capacity is in place across the laboratory network and that turnaround times are protected.