Sturgeon paints herself as perfect at Covid Inquiry
Jan 31, 2024
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Nicola Sturgeon's emotional evidence at the Covid inquiry is analyzed, including focus on deleted WhatsApp messages. Discussion on the Scottish government's culture of secrecy and potential political consequences. Ongoing inquiry challenges Sturgeon and the Scottish government, exploring criticisms and potential criminal issues.
Sturgeon downplayed the significance of WhatsApp messages in her decision-making and displayed emotional control during the evidence session.
The podcast highlighted the issue of government secrecy in the Scottish Government, particularly related to the deletion of WhatsApp messages, raising questions about hidden information and the potential impact on Sturgeon's reputation.
Deep dives
Importance of WhatsApp messages in decision-making
During the podcast episode, there was a discussion about the significance of WhatsApp messages in Nicholas Sturgeon's decision-making process. Sturgeon emphasized that WhatsApp was not a major part of her decision-making and that she mainly used it to communicate with colleagues and arrange conversations, which were properly recorded. Interestingly, Sturgeon displayed emotions during the evidence session, highlighting her ability to maintain control even in challenging situations. While acknowledging regrets and mistakes made during the pandemic, Sturgeon's ability to show vulnerability was considered noteworthy.
Scottish Government's secrecy culture
The podcast also touched upon the issue of the Scottish Government's secrecy culture, particularly related to the deletion of WhatsApp messages. The discussion highlighted instances of government secrecy throughout Sturgeon's leadership, including legal cases and the ferry scandal. The guests speculated on the motivations behind the decision to delete WhatsApp messages, speculating on potential hidden information and suggesting that it could be linked to the Sammon court case or other sensitive matters. The criticism regarding secrecy has extended beyond Sturgeon to include other prominent figures in the Scottish establishment.
Impact on Sturgeon's reputation and the SNP
The podcast delved into the potential impact of the ongoing inquiry on Nicholas Sturgeon's reputation and the broader implications for the Scottish National Party (SNP). Sturgeon's reputation, her commitment to openness and transparency, and the competency of the Scottish government were all at stake. The discussion highlighted the contrast Sturgeon sought to make between the decision-making approach of Scottish administration, focused solely on the pandemic, and what she depicted as squabbles and partisanship in the Westminster administration. However, there were differing opinions regarding this portrayal, raising questions about the political motivations behind certain decisions. Overall, it was suggested that Sturgeon's image as an exemplary leader during the pandemic may have taken a hit as a result of recent revelations.
Nicola Sturgeon was emotional whilst giving evidence at the Covid inquiry today – a highly anticipated part of the inquiry given the issue of deleted Whatsapp messages. How did the former first minister come across today? And what else can the evidence tell us about how the Scottish government operated? Katy Balls speaks to Isabel Hardman and Michael Simmons.
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