CoVent-19 Challenge finalist

That this House congratulates Ross Hunter, Chief Executive of Midlothian-based firm Armadilla, on becoming the only finalist from the UK in a global challenge to invent a new ventilator to help Covid-19 sufferers; notes that the CoVent-19 Challenge is an open innovation 8-week Grand Challenge for engineers, innovators, designers, and makers which aims to encourage innovation in rapidly deployable, minimum viable mechanical ventilators for covid-19 patients; notes that the winning prototype will be given the resources to streamline through prototyping, safety and regulatory testing, manufacturing and distribution in order to quickly and efficiently reach those most in need; commends Ross on developing a prototype and 3D models for his own submission, the CORE Vent product, which would be available for a fraction of the cost of current ventilators; notes that Armadilla is a family-owned business specialising in the manufacture of eco-friendly outdoor living; reiterates its previous congratulations to Armadilla for winning the Queen’s Award for Enterprise in the Innovation category last month; further commends Armadilla on its contribution to Midlothian’s reputation as a hub for manufacturing and prime location for enterprise; and wishes Ross the best of luck in progressing to the final stage of the challenge by submitting working prototypes by 21 June.