The first batch of medical ventilators are to roll out to the NHS this weekend

This weekend, the first batch of medical ventilators, produced by Penlon, will be distributed to the NHS; following the request from the UK Government to ramp up the production of ventilators. Some of the largest names in British manufacturing have grouped to support the process, including McLaren, Mercedes, Siemens, Meggitt and Ford.

Michael Gove, Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, stated: “Throughout our history, British manufacturing has always stepped up in times of national need. Ventilators are one of the most complex medical devices and the speed and scale that design and production is ramping up is awe-inspiring.”

Matt Hancock, Health Secretary, stated: “We have seen a fantastic response from businesses to our call for a national effort and I’m delighted these companies accepted the challenge to save lives across the country. The Government has provided a number of letters of intent to purchase potentially thousands more ventilators with companies who have credible designs, subject to them passing the regulator and strict safety tests.”