Only 10-20% of positive PCR tests undergo genomic analysis because labs lack the capability, according to the all-party parliamentary group on coronavirus.

MP Layla Moran, committee chair, said: “Despite claims that the UK is a global leader in genome sequencing, it’s now clear that the government is mishandling yet another critical part of our pandemic response and putting the public at risk of other new, potentially catastrophic variants.

“We applaud the timely reaction of scientists in South Africa in identifying the Omicron variant, but every country carries this responsibility and ministers must explain why so few tests are being genetically sequenced in the UK and outline plans to increase capacity.” 

The committee said only half of UK testing facilities were able to carry out genetic sequencing of positive PCR tests. 

It said only 10-20% of positive results were sequenced, although a further 10% are assessed for the absence of the S gene, cases which are likely to be Omicron.

The concerns echo those of transport select committee chair Huw Merriman, who said in August that only 354 of nearly 7,000 positive tests were genomically sequenced – around 5%.
 
Merriman said passengers spent around £35 million on PCR tests during a specific three-week period, meaning each sequenced test cost the equivalent of £100,000.