Sunak Defends Reopening Retailers Over Schools and ‘Eat out to Help Out’ in Covid Inquiry Testimony

WhatsApp messages from Matt Hancock and a cabinet secretary were scrutinised, while questions around NHS capacity remained unaddressed by Rishi Sunak.
Sunak Defends Reopening Retailers Over Schools and ‘Eat out to Help Out’ in Covid Inquiry Testimony
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak departs 10 Downing Street to attend Prime Minister's Questions at the Houses of Parliament in London on Oct. 25, 2023. James Manning/PA
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Prime Minister Rishi Sunak presented witness evidence to the ongoing Covid Inquiry yesterday, defending his “Eat Out To Help Out” scheme and his decision to reopen retailers instead of schools.

Mr. Sunak acknowledged his preference for reopening shops before schools following the initial Covid lockdown in response to evidence from WhatsApp conversations read out today. However, he denied advocating for the reopening of pubs and restaurants despite concerns about potential job losses associated with their closure.

Joseph Robertson
Joseph Robertson
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Joseph Robertson is a UK-based journalist covering a wide range of national stories, with a particular interest in coverage of political affairs, net zero and free speech issues.
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