PUBLIC INQUIRY INTO THE HANDLING OF THE PANDEMIC MUST NOT BE DELAYED

The Scottish Government and First Minister Nicola Sturgeon have committed to a full public inquiry later this year into all aspects of the handling of the Covid19 pandemic, including care homes. With so many families having lost loved ones to this dreadful pandemic, and individuals and businesses sacrificing so much, it is right that a full inquiry takes place as soon as possible.

Last week I asked the Health Secretary, Matt Hancock, if he will support a full public inquiry into the UK Government’s handling of all aspects of the pandemic in England. Whilst he was non-committal, the Prime Minister has now indicated there will be an independent inquiry into the UK Government’s handling of the pandemic but this will not begin until spring of next year and there is no timescale for when the final report from this inquiry is expected. The terms of reference of the inquiry also remain unclear

Indeed, Downing Street has refused to say if the inquiry report will be released before the next general election in 2024! This inquiry must be comprehensive and must not be unnecessarily delayed.

Watch the exchange below.