 The decision to place the UK under lockdown during the coronavirus pandemic will be questioned in the next phase of the UK Covid-19 Inquiry. The Government will be scrutinised over their decision to enforce social distancing rules between January 2020 and February 2022. The inquiry, led by Baroness Heather Hallett, will also examine the decisions behind the tier system, working from home, mask wearing advice and border controls. Data modelled by scientists, which gave estimates on transmission of the virus and death rates, will also be closely looked at. Ministers and other government officials are expected to give evidence during the second module of the inquiry, titled 'core UK decision-making and political governance'. Other witnesses will include expert advisers, including members of the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (Sage); civil servants and health officials from the NHS, the Department of Health and Social Care and the now defunct Public Health England. The inquiry has said it will 'pay particular scrutiny' to the decisions taken by the then prime minister, Boris Johnson, and his cabinet. A key piece of evidence is likely to include the WhatsApp messages of Mr Johnson. Social distancing and work from home orders will also be scrutinised (Picture: Alex Pantling/Getty Images) The device he used during crucial periods of the coronavirus pandemic should contain messages relating to the ordering of three lockdowns in 2020. The inquiry will also hold specific hearings on 'the strategic and overarching issues' in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Public hearings for the second module of the inquiry will begin at Dorland House in London on Tuesday. Opening statements will be read out on Tuesday and Wednesday morning. Data produced by scientists will be examined (Picture: Leon Neal/Getty Images) On Wednesday afternoon){kind=link}
NEWS… BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT
The decision to place the UK under lockdown during the coronavirus pandemic will be questioned in the next phase of the UK Covid-19 Inquiry.
The Government will be scrutinised over their decision to enforce social distancing rules between January 2020 and February 2022.
The inquiry, led by Baroness Heather Hallett, will also examine the decisions behind the tier system, working from home, mask wearing advice and border controls.
Data modelled by scientists, which gave estimates on transmission of the virus and death rates, will also be closely looked at.