
The Covid Inquiry Podcast
Full coverage of the Covid Inquiry from its hearings in London and from around the UK. With Jim Reed, Lorna Gordon, Hywel Griffith and Jennifer O'Leary.
Latest episodes

Oct 21, 2023 • 13min
10. "Dr Death"
The podcast explores the government's response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including early stages and policy decisions. It also delves into divisions within the scientific community, Professor Neil Ferguson's concerns, and the importance of public trust. The discussion covers WhatsApp messages revealing behavioral science strategies, misalignment with recommendations, and controversy surrounding the Eat Out to Help Out campaign.

Oct 14, 2023 • 8min
9. "Number Ten At War With Itself"
Analyzing political decisions and infighting in Downing Street during the pandemic; Impact of quick actions and consequences of COVID restrictions on economy, education, and domestic violence rates.

Oct 7, 2023 • 10min
8. "We've Got Big Problems Coming"
The Covid Inquiry Podcast begins its second phase, examining major political decisions during the pandemic. It highlights border controls, scientific advice, and mandatory lockdowns. The podcast discusses the slow government response and overwhelming of services. It also explores age discrimination in COVID care and upcoming discussions on scientific advice.

Jul 22, 2023 • 6min
7. "A Wonderful Wee Woman"
The final week of the Covid Inquiry focuses on emotional testimonies from relatives of Covid victims, highlighting the human cost of the pandemic. It explores personal experiences with Covid-19, ongoing inquiry into the pandemic, and the importance of planning. It also examines the disproportionate impact on specific regions and ethnic groups, and previews upcoming findings.

Jul 15, 2023 • 6min
6."Punched In The Mouth"
Testimonies cover pandemic planning, NHS weaknesses, and communication issues. Michael Gove questioned about no-deal Brexit prep. Amusing phone incident during questioning.

Jul 14, 2023 • 6min
5. "We Didn't Know What Was Going On"
Senior officials reflect on pandemic preparations and communication problems with devolved governments. Challenges in communication, lack of response, and technical issues discussed. Improving future pandemic preparedness mentioned.

Jul 14, 2023 • 7min
4. "A Witness Box Not A Soapbox"
Former Health Secretary and former Scottish First Minister provide evidence in the COVID inquiry. Testimonies highlight shortcomings in pandemic planning, lack of implementation of training recommendations, and impact of Brexit planning. Importance of a comprehensive inquiry and future pandemic preparedness discussed.

Jul 14, 2023 • 7min
3. "How Sorry I Am"
Professor Dame Sally Davies, David Cameron, and Jeremy Hunt discuss the lack of resilience in the public health system, the defense against austerity, the failure to learn from other countries, the absence of serious consideration for a shutdown before 2020, and the threats faced by scientists during the pandemic.

Jul 14, 2023 • 7min
2. "It Started Very Simply"
The podcast explores the UK's preparedness for a pandemic, including previous outbreaks and the impact on animals. It also discusses the lack of planning, inequalities in health, and features the voices of families impacted by COVID.

Jul 13, 2023 • 1min
1. The Covid Inquiry: The Beginning
Welcome to the Covid Inquiry Podcast. Subscribe now for everything you may have missed in the Covid Inquiry this week.