LONDON: Former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson appeared at a public inquiry to face scrutiny over his government’s handling of the Covid-19 pandemic. Johnson, criticized for indecisiveness and lacking scientific understanding during the crisis, is expected to acknowledge mistakes during the two-day inquiry in London.
Arriving early for the proceedings, Johnson anticipates admitting errors while defending decisions that he believes ultimately saved lives. He is set to argue that despite a high death toll, the government succeeded in preventing the health service from being overwhelmed by making crucial decisions at pivotal moments.
Reports suggest Johnson will highlight his confidence in the outcomes despite acknowledging a belief that events would eventually turn out well, based on past less catastrophic health threats. He aims to justify the government’s actions in preventing overwhelming pressure on the health service.
Expected to face tough questions, Johnson will defend the timing of the first UK lockdown and counter claims of complacency in the initial pandemic response. He will stress the conflict between preserving freedoms and ensuring community health, citing the necessity of difficult decisions in unprecedented circumstances.
The former PM’s understanding of scientific advice is poised for scrutiny after claims that he was occasionally confounded by data. Controversial comments attributed to Johnson, including alleged remarks about the elderly and lockdowns, might be raised during the inquiry.
Criticism from former aides, Dominic Cummings and Lee Cain, regarding Johnson’s decision-making process and management style during the crisis, will likely be revisited. Cummings highlighted instances of alleged delay and indecision, while Cain suggested that Covid was a challenge outside Johnson’s expertise.
The public inquiry, including Johnson’s testimony, aims to dissect the government’s actions during the pandemic. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, Johnson’s finance minister at the time, is also scheduled for questioning in the upcoming weeks, shedding further light on the UK’s Covid-19 response.
