The Public Accounts Committee pressed Home Office officials on the delays with the Windrush Compensation Scheme, which has paid out only very few claims. It is clear that the scheme was rolled out before it was ready to receive applications – two years later and victims are still facing long waits to receive their final compensation payment.

This is yet another example of the Home Office moving at a glacial pace with little regard for the impact of its actions on people’s lives. See here to read a transcript of the hearing. If you or someone you know has been affected, see here for further details from Hackney Council about how to claim compensation.

I put my name to an amendment calling for the Government to restore overseas aid spending to 0.7 per cent, along with three former chairs of the Public Accounts Committee. As well as the moral imperative, it makes no sense to switch funding off suddenly and promise to increase again later.

The Public Accounts Committee also held a hearing on the lessons learnt from COVID-19. See my round-up for further details and see here to watch a recording of the session.  

And good news as the COVID-19 vaccination programme opened up to everyone aged 25 and over. There are, however, still some very vulnerable people who've not yet had their jab. These vaccines are the safest way to protect ourselves and our loved one. If you are worried about it, please contact your own health professional or see Hackney Council's excellent online vaccine resource hub here.