Mr Marron told MPs that this includes 2.5 billion items which the NHS cannot use because they do not meet its standards, one billion which are not fit for any use and three billion gloves which meet technical standards but are the subject of an investigation.

Some of the stocks deemed unfit for NHS use include masks which can be used by the public but do not meet clinical standards.

“We’re currently investigating allegations of modern slavery, so we’re holding on to them [the gloves], we’re not supplying them – and if those concerns are met we will be seeking to return them and have our money back,” Mr Marron told the committee.

He revealed plans to destroy 15,000 pallets of PPE a month, with most to be burned. In some cases, efforts were being made to recycle materials, with PPE aprons being turned into bin liners, he said.

Some stocks have been sold or donated to countries that could make use of them, but Mr Marron told MPs: “We will also need to use more traditional waste disposal methods – largely  burning to generate heat and energy, we’re exploring that as well. And we hope to move 15,000 pallets a month through these waste contractors.”

Health officials said the Department of Health expected to spend £3.5 million this year on storage for PPE, having spent £18.5 million last year as stocks piled up.