Covid inquiry: Sunak "deeply sorry"

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak faced a rigorous six-hour interrogation during the Covid Inquiry, where he defended his decisions, notably focusing on the rationale behind the contentious "Eat Out To Help Out" scheme. However, his responses were marked by repeated claims of memory lapses concerning key meetings, emails, and conversations. Sunak admitted the loss of WhatsApp messages, further complicating transparency.
The Prime Minister refuted allegations of disparaging parents of children entitled to free school meals as 'freeloaders.' TUC Assistant General Secretary Kate Bell criticised Sunak's lack of candour, stating that accountability is essential to prevent the repetition of mistakes. Naomi Fulop of Covid-19 Bereaved Families for Justice UK called Sunak a "public health hazard" and called for his resignation, emphasising the public's recollection of his inability to recall crucial moments.
Sunak underscored the importance of the "Eat Out To Help Out" scheme in preserving millions of jobs within the hospitality sector. Despite criticism, he defended the scheme as vital for sustaining employment, dismissing claims of inadequate consultation with government scientists as it was considered a "micro policy." Sunak maintained its significance despite concerns about potential contributions to Covid transmission.
Addressing characterisations of his Treasury team as "Dr Death" or the "pro-death squad," Sunak expressed remorse and extended apologies to families who lost loved ones during the pandemic. The prime minister began by saying "how deeply sorry I am to all of those who lost loved ones, and family members through the pandemic."He stressed the need to learn from past experiences to enhance preparedness for future crises. Sunak acknowledged his role in providing economic advice to then-Prime Minister Boris Johnson but clarified that Johnson was the "ultimate and sole decision-maker."
While Sunak contested claims about scientific advisors warning against ending lockdowns, he defended the decision not to consult them on the "Eat Out To Help Out" scheme, citing a prior collective decision to reopen indoor hospitality. The inability to produce WhatsApp messages, shared with Johnson, raised concerns about transparency and accountability.
Rishi Sunak's testimony at the Covid Inquiry revealed challenges in recalling crucial details, facing criticism for lack of candour, and defending controversial decisions such as the "Eat Out To Help Out" scheme. Calls for accountability and concerns about transparency in the absence of key messages underscore the challenges in evaluating the government's pandemic response.