By Tony O’Riley
Boris Johnson has committed himself to an “independent inquiry” into the coronavirus pandemic.
The British prime minister committed himself to an investigation, clarifying that such an investigation would “certainly” be one “in the future” so lessons could be learned.
It remains unclear who will be chosen to lead the inquiry, what lines it would take and how much disclosure will be required appear in person to give
However, groups representing people bereaved by covid -19 deaths criticised the Johnson’s pledge as being a “long way from what families need to see”.
The Covid-19 Bereaved Families for Justice said the PM has refused to meet them to discuss their concerns.
The group, which met Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer earlier, is calling for an immediate inquiry into the government’s handling of the pandemic.In a statement, it said: “We need to know that any inquiry will be public with the ability for families to contribute their experiences and that it will have the power to access all of the evidence and witnesses needed.
“We also believe that a part of any inquiry must begin now to take fast action in order to prevent further unnecessary deaths should we encounter a second wave.”
The group expressed disappointment the prime minister is refusing to meet with or listen to bereaved families”.There are a number of potential reasons the prime minister may have been reluctant to see the bereaved families of Covid-19 victims. An obvious one is the awkward questions that could be asked, mixed with accusations from grieving families about the pandemic.
The pandemic would be challenging for any prime minister because of the many factors and responsibilities involved. It would be interesting to see what form the promised inquiry takes.