UK Government Faces Criticism and Legal Action Over Covid Inquiry Request for Boris Johnson's Communications

The Cabinet Office believes that sharing this information could set a precedent that could lead to the inquiry demanding the WhatsApp messages of serving ministers, including the prime minister.

Johnson has offered to pass on his unredacted messages and emails directly to the inquiry, without any prejudice to the judicial review.

The Cabinet Office's legal action was launched "with regret" and they assured the inquiry that they will continue to cooperate fully with the inquiry.

However, a minister has admitted that they believe the government will lose the case.

The Cabinet Office is facing criticism for threatening to sue an inquiry into the government's handling of the Covid-19 pandemic, which promises to reveal the truth about decision-making during the crisis.

Bereaved relatives and politicians alike have accused the government of attempting to cover up evidence that could damage the reputation of Rishi Sunak, the current Chancellor of the Exchequer.

The inquiry's powers are being challenged, with the Cabinet Office arguing that the request for personal communications and other unrelated materials is an unwarranted intrusion into the work of government and an individual's privacy.

The decision has caused disagreement within the government, with some arguing that officials should be given whatever they want and that there is nothing to be ashamed of.

However, others, such as Angela Rayner, believe that the public deserves answers and that the inquiry should be allowed to proceed without interference.

A legal battle is expected to ensue, with a decision on the matter potentially taking weeks to be reached.