FM: ‘Inquiry should start this year’

Nicola Sturgeon has welcomed Boris Johnson’s inquiry announcement, but insisteditshouldstartthis year.

Thefirstministerwas responding after the Prime Minister promised an independent public inquiry into the UK Government’s handling of the coronavirus pandemic to start in spring next year.

After Mr Johnson claimed a delay was required until it was “more certain” the pandemic was behind the UK, Ms Sturgeon urged him to act faster.

She said: “We broadly welcome the UK Government joining us in committing to take forward a four-nations full public inquiry.

“It is vital this inquiry covers all aspects of the impact and handling of the pandemic, and that bereaved families of Covid-19 victims have a say in shaping its scope.

“There is no reason for further delay and I would encourage the UK Government to establish a chair for the inquiry as quickly as possible, so that it can begin its work this year.

“We have tried to learn lessons and continuously adapt our approach to protect our NHS and save lives throughout the pandemic, and it is right that we learn from our experience, and that the voices of families who have lost loved ones are heard.

“This statutory, full public inquiry must be person-centred and take a human rightsbased approach if it is to get the answers we need.”

Her comments came after the Prime Minister announced to MPS the inquiry would take oral evidence under oath and place “the state’s actions under the microscope”.