WhatsApps, ‘f***wits’ and ‘Dr Death’: The Covid inquiry heats up
Oct 31, 2023
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The podcast discusses Dominic Cummings giving evidence to the UK's Covid inquiry, revealing internecine grudges and factions. It explores the drama and intrigues of the inquiry, including decision-making processes and the introduction of 'Dr. Death'. Testimonies reveal flip-flopping, delayed decision-making, and media influence. The ongoing inquiry may potentially embarrass politicians and raise questions about credibility.
The UK Covid inquiry has revealed internal tensions and derogatory remarks within Downing Street, exposing divisions within the government and the lack of credibility of key figures.
The inquiry has highlighted clashes between proponents of lockdown measures and lockdown skeptics, showcasing the different viewpoints within scientific advice.
Deep dives
Module 2 of the UK COVID-19 inquiry: Insights and Drama
Module 2 of the UK COVID-19 inquiry is focused on the conduct of the government during the pandemic. The inquiry has unveiled a glimpse into the minds of key figures, including Sir Patrick Vallance, the government's former chief scientific adviser. His diary revealed his frustration with inconsistent decision-making and a sense of the government's lack of credibility. The inquiry also shed light on the feud within Downing Street, particularly between Dominic Cummings and Carrie Symonds. WhatsApp messages exposed tensions and derogatory remarks regarding each other's influence on the Prime Minister. The inquiry has further highlighted divisions in scientific advice, with clashes between proponents of lockdown measures and lockdown skeptics. The inquiry is still ongoing, but it has already provided drama and insight into the decision-making and dynamics within the government.
Simon Case's WhatsApp messages and criticism of leadership
Simon Case, former cabinet secretary, was revealed to have sent critical WhatsApp messages about the government's handling of the pandemic. His messages highlighted flip-flopping decisions and poor and delayed decision-making. Notably, there were references to Carrie Symonds being the real person in charge, further fueling the rift within Downing Street. The inquiry also uncovered exchanges involving Professor Carl Heneghan, a lockdown skeptic and signatory of the Great Barrington Declaration. Messages from Dame Angela McLean, former deputy chief scientific adviser, referred to him as a 'fuckwit'. These WhatsApp messages and exchanges offered insights into internal conflicts and differing opinions among scientists and advisors.
Drama and revelations in the UK COVID-19 inquiry
The ongoing UK COVID-19 inquiry has provided insights into the government's decision-making and dynamics during the pandemic. WhatsApp messages exposed tensions, derogatory remarks, and disagreements within Downing Street. The inquiry has shown the frustration and exasperation of key figures like Sir Patrick Vallance with inconsistent decision-making. It has also uncovered clashes between proponents of lockdown measures and lockdown skeptics. The inquiry has delved into the intricacies of Boris Johnson's court and exposed divisions within the government. While the inquiry is focused on serious matters, it has also revealed drama and retrospective point-scoring among those involved. As the inquiry continues, more revelations are expected, offering a closer look at the decision-making process during the crisis.
Dominic Cummings gives evidence to the UK’s Covid inquiry today – the latest in a string of senior advisors to Boris Johnson to do so. The published evidence, including private WhatsApp conversations, is bringing to light internecine grudges between those in charge. We catch up on what’s been revealed so far.
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