The UK government is facing accusations of "cover-up" and "delaying tactics" in the ongoing Covid inquiry, sparking a heated debate about transparency and accountability.
The Cabinet Office has been accused of potentially hiding crucial evidence from the inquiry, raising concerns of a potential cover-up.
However, Downing Street vehemently denies these allegations, emphasizing its commitment to a rigorous and candid investigation.
The inquiry has granted an extended deadline for the Cabinet Office to submit unredacted pandemic-related material, including former Prime Minister
Boris Johnson's WhatsApp messages and notebooks.
Surprisingly, the Cabinet Office has revealed that it does not possess these documents, leaving unanswered questions about the handling of crucial information during the pandemic.
Labour's deputy leader, Angela Rayner, has criticized the government's actions, suggesting that they have something to hide.
The
Covid inquiry aims to conclude public evidence hearings by the summer of 2026, with further investigations expected to commence in the summer of 2024.
However, this latest development has further fueled the controversy surrounding the inquiry and its access to key materials.
In other news, Home Office civil servants are considering potential strike action in response to the government's Rwanda deportation policy and small boats legislation.
Meanwhile, trade talks between the UK and the US will not be on the agenda during Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's upcoming meeting with President
Joe Biden.
Instead, the focus will be on forging trade deals with individual US states, highlighting the government's commitment to strengthening international economic ties.
As the
Covid inquiry continues to unfold, it remains a hot topic of debate, with calls for transparency, accountability, and lessons to be learned from the state's actions during the pandemic..