The exercise is being held in response to recommendations from the Covid-19 Inquiry led by Baroness Hallett in July 2024.

Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, The Rt Hon Pat McFadden MP, said: ‘We must learn lessons from the Covid pandemic as we cannot afford to make the same mistakes again. But we will plan in a way that recognises the next crisis may not be the same as the last.

‘We agree with the inquiry that more needs to be done and are announcing measures to make sure that we are as prepared as possible for future pandemics. 

‘These changes will improve our resilience and preparedness and help to safeguard our citizens.'

The exercise, which is the first of its kind in nearly a decade, will test the country's capabilities, plans, protocols and procedures in the event of another major pandemic. 

It will be led by senior ministers, involve thousands of participants and run across all regions and nations of the UK. All Government departments, local resilience forums and the devolved governments have been invited to participate. 

In order to provide more support for vulnerable groups, many of whom were disproportionately impacted during the Covid-19 pandemic, the Cabinet Office has created a Risk Vulnerability Tool with the Office for National Statistics identifying where these groups might be disproportionately impacted.

In addition, from April 2025, over 4,000 people will be trained in resilience and emergency roles every year through the UK Resilience Academy to help practitioners plan for and manage a range of crises.

The Government will also carry out a national test of the Emergency Alert System later in 2025.

Findings and lessons from the exercise will be communicated as recommended by the Covid-19 Inquiry.