Boris Johnson stated that he was unable to prevent gatherings in Downing Street that violated lockdown regulations. He criticized the media and television portrayals of these events as “ridiculous” and not accurately reflecting the truth.
During the UK Covid-19 inquiry, Johnson stated that the gatherings mainly consisted of staff working diligently in challenging conditions, a statement that may provoke frustration among bereaved relatives’ groups.
The ex-prime minister stated that he once again apologized for the 126 fixed-penalty notices that were given to No 10 for violating Covid regulations. However, he also mentioned that the employees working at No 10 were unjustly criticized.
The dominant narrative surrounding the events at Downing Street greatly differs from what truly occurred, according to the statement made by the individual to Hugo Keith KC, the main counsel for the investigation. The speaker represents numerous dedicated civil servants who believed they were abiding by the regulations. The exaggerated media coverage and portrayals of the situation are completely ridiculous.
He stated that the portrayal of civil servants and advisers in No 10 has been inaccurate and unjust. They believed they were putting in a lot of effort, which they were.
During a later conversation with Brenda Campbell KC, who was representing grieving families from Northern Ireland, he denied the suggestion that he could have taken more action at the time to prevent events, such as wine and cheese gatherings, from happening at No 10 during lockdown.
The speaker stated that the issue was due to individuals putting in a lot of effort. When asked if he could have done more, he replied that based on his knowledge at the time, the answer is no.
During his discussions with Keith, Johnson contended that the guidelines for Covid were crafted to provide flexibility for businesses. He also stated that the violations were mostly unintentional due to employees not fully comprehending the rules and facing high levels of stress.
He expressed that they had to frequently hold meetings at various times and quickly gather people for different meetings. Given the circumstances, it was difficult to strictly adhere to the guidance, which he has tried to clarify multiple times.
In December 2021, Keith presented the inquiry with WhatsApp messages between himself and Simon Case, the cabinet secretary, which contradicted Johnson’s account of the events surrounding the reported parties.
Johnson stated in a message that, looking back, it would have been wise for everyone, particularly his head of communications Lee Cain, to consider their actions within the walls of number ten and how it would be perceived. However, at this point, they must continue moving forward.
Keith informed Johnson that the statement was meant to address their actions and those of their associates. They were aware of the potential perception, but did not show much concern.
Johnson vehemently denied this, stating that although he could have taken greater measures to promote consideration for how one’s actions may be interpreted by others, he was extremely invested in the issue of Covid.
He shared his experience of being hospitalized in the intensive care unit in March 2020 due to a severe case of the virus. He also mentioned that he saw other men of his age in the same situation, with some recovering and others not.
He stated, “Through that experience, I became aware of the severity of this illness. Since March, I have had no doubt about it. It is incorrect to say that I am indifferent to the suffering that has been inflicted upon the nation.”
Keith responded by clarifying that he did not imply Johnson lacked concern for suffering, but rather that “you were not worried about how your actions would be perceived.”
Johnson expressed gratitude for the clarification provided.
Source: theguardian.com
