In his evidence to the Covid-19 inquiry, Cummings admitted to using derogatory terms like "useless f*pigs, morons, and c**" to describe ministers. He defended his language by stating that he was reflecting a common sentiment among competent individuals in positions of power at the time, who believed that many senior officials were handling the crisis poorly.
During the inquiry, Cummings was asked whether his language contributed to the ineffectiveness of ministers, to which he replied negatively. He argued that he was pointing out the perceived shortcomings of senior officials who were responsible for managing the crisis. Cummings also criticized the system within Downing Street, describing it as dysfunctional and filled with individuals in the wrong roles, and he highlighted the lack of effective management, excessive bureaucracy, and a culture of concealing mistakes.
In his testimony, Cummings stated that part of his role was to speak out when he believed someone couldn't perform their job effectively and that his intention was to address core problems within the Westminster culture, even if it meant being critical of ministers and senior officials.