evidence: Thank you for your FOI enquiry dated 28th October in which you asked MHRA to "confirm why the PCR test was granted authorization for use by your department when it is not fit for purpose" and provide information about PCR tests: - Does the PCR test only detect viral matter - How does the PCR test distinguish between sars covid 2 and other coronavirus like say flu or the common cold - Can the PCR test be used to detect infectious viral diseases if so how - Was the PCR test tested with confirmation on a pure isolated sample of sars covid 2 - Who in your department authorised the use of the PCR test - Was the MHRA advised to use the PCR tests by any other organisation or individual [...] The use of CE/UKCA marked PCR tests by the NHS does not require MHRA approval and we are informed by the NHS guidance for the use of COVID 19 tests as provided to the general public. The latest guidance can be found at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/testing/get-tested-for-coronavirus/