The UK government has signed deals for a further 90 million doses of coronavirus vaccine.
The order means that means the UK has placed orders for six experimental vaccines, taking its potential stockpile to 340 million doses
‘We don't know if any of these vaccine formats that we've acquired will actually work. There are no licensed vaccines for any human coronavirus,’ said Kate Bingham, chair of the UK government Vaccine Taskforce, speaking to the BBC.
The purchase means that Britain's potential stockpile to a total of 340 million doses, one of the biggest in the world.
‘The government's strategy to build a portfolio of promising vaccine candidates will ensure we have the best chance possible of finding one that works,’ said Business Secretary Alok Sharma.
‘Today's agreements will not only benefit people in the UK but will ensure fair and equitable access of a vaccine around the world, potentially protecting hundreds of millions of lives.’