During a recent session at the Covid inquiry, Matt Hancock defended the government’s decisions around purchasing personal protective equipment (PPE) during the pandemic, citing the challenging circumstances the country faced at the time. The former health secretary appeared frustrated with the line of questioning, referring to it as “naive,” “hostile,” and “inappropriate.” Despite criticisms, Hancock expressed his understanding of the establishment of a VIP lane for PPE suppliers with political connections, stating it was a typical practice.
Appearing for the fifth time at the Covid inquiry, Hancock discussed the purchase and distribution of £15bn worth of PPE, testing kits, ventilators, and other medical equipment during the pandemic. He defended a public appeal made for more UK suppliers of PPE, acknowledging the overwhelming response that followed. Witness testimonies have highlighted the urgent need for PPE at the time, emphasizing the severity of the shortages faced at a national level.
The inquiry also delved into the establishment of the High Priority Lane, a system implemented to manage PPE offers by prioritizing referrals from MPs, Lords, or senior civil servants. Hancock distanced himself from the system’s design, despite facing criticism and conspiracy theories. Professor Albert Sanchez-Graells, commissioned by the inquiry, raised concerns about this approach, pointing out the absence of similar prioritization in other regions. Hancock defended the necessity of having a process to handle high-quality offers during intense pressure to save lives.
Further scrutiny focused on a £30m contract awarded to a company owned by Alex Bourne, who ran a pub in Hancock’s constituency, to manufacture vials for Covid testing. Emails revealed Hancock’s communication with Lord Bethell regarding Bourne’s analysis of the testing system. In response to questioning, Hancock maintained that his actions were above reproach and criticized the inquiry’s counsel for selecting messages with “tabloid interest.” The inquiry’s chairwoman emphasized the importance of exploring matters of public concern and seeking recommendations to enhance future responses and save lives
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