Rachel Reeves Launches Investigation into £600M Covid Contracts

Chancellor Rachel Reeves has ordered investigations into over six hundred million pounds worth of Covid contracts awarded under the Conservative government. Labour refers more than half of these contracts for PPE to the incoming Covid corruption commissioner for independent assessment. This follows controversies like the £200 million PPE contract linked to Conservative peer Michelle Mone and growing internal and public criticisms over donations and decision-making.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves has ordered investigations into over £600 million worth of Covid contracts awarded under the Conservative government.

Labour aims to address ethical concerns with this decision as they face criticism over donations and gifts.

The party will refer more than half of contracts for PPE to the incoming Covid corruption commissioner for independent assessment.

This move follows controversies on how these lucrative contracts were awarded, including a £200 million contract linked to Conservative peer Michelle Mone and PPE Medpro, currently under National Crime Agency investigation.

Main concerns also include MPs' receipt of donations and gifts, highlighted by Deputy PM Angela Rayner's holiday at Labour donor Waheed Alli's $2.5 million New York home.

Internal tensions rise with union activists condemning winter fuel payment cuts to pensioners.

Labour seeks to restore support and focus on their future governance plans, ruling out a return to austerity despite challenging economic conditions.