Can we trust our government?

WE gather that the new test and trace system is to be operated by the NHS rather than by the government or by a private company.

While this gives some comfort and a sense of security, we should remind ourselves that much of the NHS is now privatised and that it will be difficult to prevent unscrupulous organisations from hacking into personal data.

We recall what happened during the Leave campaign when Cambridge Analytica exploited personal data to target voters.

We know from emails that Dominic Cummings, architect of the Leave campaign, was in cahoots with Cambridge Analytica.

How can we be sure that the new Test and Trace data will not be used for other political purposes now or in the future?

And, in the light of the government’s earlier failures to test and trace air travellers and to lock down early enough, can we trust the government to act wisely on the data?

What is more, can we trust the government’s top adviser to act responsibly if he is asked to disclose his contacts and to self-isolate, especially in the light of his recent actions and of the previous spread of the virus in government circles?

Put simply, can we trust our government? families and communities and focusing on those people making the right choices.

And as for all the press waiting outside Cummings’ home flouting all the social distancing rules going – how about calling for their resignation?

I need hope right now to get through the difficult days ahead.

This negativity helps no one.