A UK public inquiry has sharply criticized former Prime Minister Boris Johnson for his chaotic and indecisive handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, concluding that delays in implementing lockdown measures contributed to roughly 23,000 preventable deaths.
The inquiry, launched by Johnson himself in May 2021, highlighted a “toxic and disorganized culture” at the heart of government during the crisis. Former judge Heather Hallett, who chaired the inquiry, said Johnson underestimated the severity of the virus early on, distracted by Brexit negotiations, and allowed a culture where the loudest voices dominated decision-making, often sidelining women and other colleagues.
Hallett emphasized that earlier interventions might have avoided the need for a full lockdown. However, by the time restrictions were announced on March 23, 2020, it was “too little, too late.” The report states that acting just a week earlier could have halved the number of deaths during the first wave. Subsequent delays in responding to rising cases also triggered further national lockdowns later in the year.
The report also criticized Johnson’s top adviser, Dominic Cummings, calling him a destabilizing influence who frequently overstepped his role and used offensive, misogynistic language. Former Health Secretary Matt Hancock was similarly scrutinized for breaches of lockdown rules and questionable reliability in meetings.
Johnson faced numerous controversies, including the “Partygate” scandal, which contributed to his resignation in July 2022. The inquiry issued 19 recommendations aimed at improving the UK’s preparedness and response for future pandemics. Campaign groups for bereaved families described the findings as “devastating,” emphasizing the human lives that could have been saved under more decisive leadership.
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