Freedom of Information request on sars cov2 pcr testing kits (FOI 21/1050)
Published 27 April 2022
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11th October 2021
FOI 21/1050
Dear
Thank you for your information request, dated 13th September where you asked -
When was the NHS first supplied with sars cov2 pcr tests and if purchased using public monies, from which companies or individuals where they purchased from and when.
You may be interested to know that one of first available test for NHS use (an in-house assay) was developed by Public Health England (PHE) to extend the capacity of testing in the UK for Covid-19. MHRA granted PHE an Exceptional Use Authorisation (EUA) to supply the in-house assay from a start date of 05/03/2020 and end date of 07/09/2020.
For more information on EUAs please refer to this web page: Exemptions from Devices regulations during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
MHRA do not hold the information you have requested. We advise you contact NHS Test and Trace/DHSC, directly as your question falls within their remit and they may be able to provide the information you requested.
I hope the information provided has been helpful.
Yours sincerely,
MHRA Customer Service Centre
Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency
10 South Colonnade, Canary Wharf, London E14 4PU