Some of the UK’s top manufacturers - including Rolls-Royce and JCB - are due to talk to Prime Minister Boris Johnson today about the possibility of shifting production lines to building ventilators for the NHS.
At the weekend, it emerged that engineering firms had been contacted by the Government about whether they would be able to help amid growing concern about a shortage of the life-saving equipment as coronavirus infections increase.
Both Rolls-Royce, which has its civil aerospace and defence businesses in Derby, and Staffordshire-based construction equipment manufacturer JCB, have confirmed an approach.
Manufacturing firm, Unipart, has also confirmed its involvement in discussions.
It is not clear yet how much help they will be able to offer, but Rolls-Royce, which manufactures aero engines at its Sinfin site, has said it was “keen to do whatever we can”.
In a statement the firm said: “We understand that the Government is exploring ways in which businesses can help deal with the outbreak of Covid-19.
“As they shape their plans, we are keen to do whatever we can to help the Government and the country at this time and will look to provide any practical help we can.”
Ventilators are vital in the treatment of patients whose lungs have been attacked by infection. They help a person breathe by getting oxygen into the lungs and removing carbon dioxide.
In a statement released yesterday, Lord Bamford, chairman of JCB said: “We have been approached by the Prime Minister to see if we can help with the production of ventilators. We have research and engineering teams actively looking at the request at the moment.
“It’s unclear as yet if we can assist, but as a British company, we will do whatever we can to help during the unprecedented times our country is facing.”
In a statement, Downing Street said: “Preparing for the spread of the coronavirus outbreak is a national priority and we’re calling on the manufacturing industry and all those with relevant expertise who might be able to help to come together to help the country tackle this national crisis.
“We need to step up production of vital equipment such as ventilators so that we can all help the most vulnerable, and we need businesses to come to us and help in this national effort.”
