Virus test firm hopes a job for Boris’s brother will open doors
Max Johnson appointed to board amid ‘Govt talks’
BORIS Johnson’s brother has joined the board of a private company which bosses say is holding talks with the Government over Covid-19 testing.
Investment banker Max Johnson could hopefully “open doors” for REVIV Global, according to its medical director Dr Michael Barnish.
The firm is offering private Covid-19 antigen tests for £89 each.
Dr Barnish said they are using labs also used by NHS Test and Trace.
Asked if REVIV’s tests were linked to NHS Test and Trace, Dr Barnish said: “They’re outside the national system, but we’re happy to work with the national system.
“I haven’t been in any talks with them, but I know full well our CEO has – and obviously Max Johnson, et cetera... there are talks going on.
“We’re happy to support in any way we can the Government testing strategy.” Asked if Max Johnson being on the board would open doors for REVIV, Dr Barnish said: “I’m hoping so. We absolutely want to help, but I don’t know what the relationship is like.”
The wellness firm’s chief executive, Sarah Lomas, said Max Johnson’s appointment would be a “critical point” in the firm’s “aggressive growth”.
She added: “The pandemic has created unprecedented opportunities for REVIV.”
The firm says tests are being offered at cost price, that they make no profit on the scheme and donate to the
NHS for each test they sell.
Dr Barnish said they use spare capacity at the lab rather than taking capacity away from the
DIRECTOR Dr Barnish
national scheme. Max Johnson said his main role will be securing investment and expansion into Asia. He and the PM are halfbrothers. Their dad is Stanley Johnson.
REVIV boss Ms Lomas said in a statement: “Max Johnson has joined the non- executive board because of his investment experience in Asia, where he is a resident.
“His familial connection to the UK Prime Minister does not give REVIV an advantage... In fact it is more likely to mean our company is penalised.
“We would welcome the opportunity to speak with the UK government to share details of our new Covid management technology... but Max Johnson is not speaking to them for us.” @mikeysmith
We’re happy to support the Govt’s testing strategy in any way
DR MICHAEL BARNISH FROM PRIVATE FIRM REVIV