The News Agents
Is the Covid Inquiry coming for Rishi Sunak?
Nov 21, 2023
Rishi Sunak, architect of Eat Out to Help Out, faces intensified pressure due to revelations from the Covid Inquiry. The podcast discusses tax cuts ahead of the budget and questions if they are politically motivated. The lack of progress in the Covid Inquiry and Boris Johnson's character are also explored. Rivalry between government departments and the importance of storytelling in journalism and political statements are discussed as well.
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Quick takeaways
- The Covid inquiry has exposed the lack of clear and consistent positions from the Prime Minister and the blurred lines between scientific advice and political decisions.
- The delay in taking decisive action during the pandemic has been criticized, highlighting the difficult balancing act faced by officials in weighing economic and social impacts against the need to control the spread of the virus.
Deep dives
The Covid inquiry reveals chaos and shambles at the heart of the government
The Covid inquiry has exposed the chaotic decision-making and shambolic handling of the pandemic by the UK government. Witnesses, including Chief Medical Officer Chris Whitty, have shed light on the lack of clear and consistent positions from the Prime Minister and the blurred lines between scientific advice and political decisions. The inquiry has revealed disagreements among key figures, such as Whitty and scientific advisor Patrick Vallance, on fundamental issues like the timing of the first lockdown. The testimony has also highlighted the detrimental impact of the government's mantra of 'following the science' and the challenges faced by scientists in advising ministers without exerting direct influence.
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