Amidst the ongoing inquiry into Britain’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, a startling revelation emerged regarding Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s alleged comments. It was disclosed that Sunak had suggested letting people die instead of implementing a second national lockdown. This disclosure came to light through the diary entry of Patrick Vallance, the government’s former chief scientific adviser.
During a meeting involving Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Sunak on October 25, 2020, Dominic Cummings, Johnson’s senior adviser at the time, shared with Vallance what he claimed to have heard. Vallance noted in his diary, referencing Cummings, that Sunak believed it was acceptable to “just let people die” and that he perceived a lack of leadership in dealing with the crisis. These revelations have raised eyebrows and invited scrutiny over Sunak’s approach to the pandemic.
In response to the revelation, a spokesperson for Sunak stated that the prime minister would address the matter when he gives evidence during the inquiry, rather than providing piecemeal responses. The government’s response to the pandemic has been under intense scrutiny, with the inquiry delving into the actions and decision-making processes that contributed to the loss of more than 220,000 lives in Britain.
The inquiry has repeatedly exposed the government’s lack of preparedness and a toxic work culture that hindered an effective response to the health crisis. Sunak’s position becomes vulnerable in the face of evidence that challenges his attempt to distance himself from the chaotic leadership of Prime Minister Johnson. Previous evidence has already revealed criticism directed towards Sunak for his “Eat Out to Help Out” policy, which subsidized meals in establishments but was condemned as potentially contributing to the spread of the virus.
As the inquiry continues until the summer of 2026, the question remains as to how Sunak’s alleged stance will impact public perception of his leadership and influence ongoing efforts to evaluate the government’s actions during the pandemic.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What did Rishi Sunak allegedly say during the COVID-19 crisis?
According to a diary entry by Patrick Vallance, Rishi Sunak, the Finance Minister at the time, was quoted as suggesting that the government should “just let people die” instead of implementing a second national lockdown during the COVID-19 pandemic.
2. Who revealed Rishi Sunak’s alleged comments?
The disclosure of Rishi Sunak’s alleged comments came from Dominic Cummings, then a senior adviser to Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who relayed the information to Patrick Vallance, the government’s former chief scientific adviser.
3. How has Rishi Sunak responded to these allegations?
A spokesperson for Sunak stated that he would address the matter when providing evidence during the ongoing inquiry, rather than responding to individual claims.
Sources:
– [Hindustan Times](https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news)