Boris Johnson's COVID Inquiry Appearance: A Courtroom Atmosphere: Johnson faced intense scrutiny during his COVID inquiry appearance, with a packed room, protests, and thorough questioning about his pandemic decisions. Flexible seating solutions from Borrows Furniture and budget-friendly TriTerm Medical plans from UnitedHealthcare were also mentioned.
Boris Johnson's appearance at the COVID inquiry was a highly anticipated event, with a packed hearing room, journalists, and public interest reaching new heights. Rachel Cunliffe, reporting from the scene, described the atmosphere as reminiscent of a courtroom, with limited spaces for journalists and the public. The former prime minister arrived early and was met with protests both inside and outside the building. Despite the intense scrutiny, Johnson answered questions about his decisions during the pandemic, with Rachel and her colleagues from The New Statesman covering the substance of his testimony in future episodes. Meanwhile, Burrows Furniture offers flexible and budget-friendly seating solutions, ensuring easy assembly and disassembly, and fast free shipping. UnitedHealthcare TriTerm Medical plans provide flexible, budget-friendly coverage lasting nearly three years in certain states. Remember to check out their websites for more information.
Boris Johnson's Unconvincing Performance at COVID-19 Inquiry: Despite weeks of preparation, Boris Johnson's performance at the COVID-19 inquiry was uncomfortable and evasive, failing to effectively answer tough questions and leaving his usual oratory skills absent.
Boris Johnson's performance at the inquiry into the UK government's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic was notably uncomfortable and less effective than expected. Despite weeks of preparation and a team of advisors, Johnson appeared fidgety, evasive, and struggled to make eye contact. His usual oratory skills and confidence were absent, and he failed to convincingly answer uncomfortable questions about his role in the government's response to the crisis. The hearing's lead questioner, Hugo Keith, proved to be a formidable opponent, leaving Johnson's Union debating tactics ineffective. The public's perception of Johnson as a great communicator was challenged, as he seemed unable to get the better of Keith or provide clear, persuasive answers.
Boris Johnson's Confusing Performance at COVID Inquiry: Johnson appeared unprepared, confusing during questioning, but some new info emerged, like language use and attempts to dismiss colleagues.
That Boris Johnson appeared unprepared and confused during his questioning at the COVID inquiry, despite his attempts to throw off his opponent with needling and jabs. Witness Hugo Keith effectively pinned him down on specific details, exposing moments where Johnson seemed to believe he had found a chink in the armor with technicalities. The interrogation was not a two-way debate but rather one person answering questions and another. While some new revelations have emerged, such as language use in Downing Street and attempts to get colleagues fired, it remains to be seen how much new information will come out of the inquiry overall. The assessment that not much new information is being learned may depend on which witnesses are being discussed.
Boris Johnson's Testimony at COVID-19 Inquiry Reveals Male-Dominated Culture and Lack of Accountability: Johnson acknowledged a male-dominated culture in Downing Street, failed to address a rude message, apologized vaguely for mistakes, dismissed a briefing on long COVID, and appeared disengaged during the pandemic inquiry
Learning from Boris Johnson's testimony at the inquiry into the UK government's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic is that the prime minister acknowledged the presence of a male-dominated culture in Downing Street and failed to act against a rude message about a colleague. Johnson also apologized for the government's mistakes but couldn't specify which ones, and he dismissed a briefing about long COVID with the word "bollocks." These revelations, along with his waffling response when asked about the seriousness of long COVID, added to the perception that Johnson was not fully engaged or accountable during the crisis. The inquiry aims to hold Johnson and other officials to account for their decisions and actions during the pandemic.
Balancing learning from past mistakes and public consciousness: The COVID-19 inquiry aims to strike a balance between uncovering past errors for future pandemics and maintaining public interest, potentially through confrontational moments and focusing on controversial language, but avoiding 'pandemic amnesia' by releasing reports with recommendations
The COVID-19 inquiry is trying to find a balance between learning from past mistakes for future pandemics and keeping the inquiry in the public and media consciousness. Some argue this may involve more confrontational moments with high-profile politicians and focusing on controversial language used during the pandemic. However, there's a risk of "pandemic amnesia," where people want to move on from the worst of the crisis, and there may not be a need for the inquiry to be in the news every day to achieve its goals. Instead, the inquiry could produce reports detailing mistakes and recommendations without constant media attention. The interim reports, which will be released, may put pressure on the government to respond and implement changes, regardless of the inquiry's media presence.
Focus on specific incidents for public interest: The Boris Johnson inquiry's focus on specific incidents may provide news lines but offers limited valuable lessons for future pandemics, while public anger over perceived hypocrisy could have minor electoral impact.
The Boris Johnson inquiry's focus on specific incidents like Dominic Cummings' trip to Barnard Castle and Matt Hancock's rule-breaking may be driven by the desire to provide news lines for the public, rather than providing valuable lessons for dealing with future pandemics. The public's anger over perceived hypocrisy, particularly regarding these incidents, can still have marginal electoral impact. However, the impact on the current election or Rishi Sunak's standing may not be significant, as other issues like the Rwanda treaty and bill take precedence. The inquiry's exploration of the working culture in Downing Street and transparency remains important.
Political Infighting Among Ministers Muted: Despite criticisms towards Boris Johnson and Rishi Sunak's handling of the pandemic, ministers have been reluctant to publicly attack each other. Johnson is now trying to create a narrative of care for people's health and economic responsibility during the pandemic.
That despite criticisms towards Boris Johnson's handling of the Eat Out to Help Out scheme and Matt Hancock's performance during the pandemic, there has been a reluctance among ministers to publicly attack each other. Revelations about Rishi Sunak's attitude towards the pandemic and loss of life versus the economy have emerged, which could potentially surprise the public. Johnson is now trying to create impressions of his care for people's health and economic responsibility during the pandemic, while also addressing the skepticism of lockdowns within the Tory right. Expect Johnson to use the inquiry to make a wider point about his leadership during the pandemic and the current economic situation.
UK PM Rishi Sunak's Spring Statement amidst challenges: Rishi Sunak must balance pandemic spending with future cost-cutting in his Spring Statement, while also addressing party disunity and public concerns.
Rishi Sunak, the current UK Prime Minister, faces a challenging task in delivering his Spring Statement amidst economic pressures, disunity within his party, and speculation about leadership challenges. Sunak must use this opportunity to address the public and his party, explaining the necessity of pandemic spending while also curbing future expenditures to prevent financial consequences. However, his ability to do so without appearing moody or under pressure will be crucial. Boris Johnson, Sunak's predecessor, does not face the same political constraints, making Sunak's appearance potentially more interesting. As the political situation remains dire, Sunak must seize every opportunity to connect with both his party and the public.
Quince: More Than Just a Clothing Brand: Quince offers high-quality, ethically-made essentials with free shipping and a 365-day return policy, making it a top choice for sustainable, affordable wardrobe staples.
Quince is not just a clothing brand, but a company that prioritizes both quality and ethics. They ensure their essentials are made using safe and ethical manufacturing practices, giving consumers peace of mind and stylish, long-lasting pieces. Quince's commitment to sustainability and affordability makes it an excellent choice for those packing for vacations or everyday wear. Moreover, Quince's dedication to customer satisfaction is evident through their free shipping and 365-day return policy. This flexibility allows shoppers to try out new styles and colors with minimal risk, ensuring they find the perfect fit for their wardrobe. To explore Quince's offerings and take advantage of their special promotions, visit their website at quints.com/pack. By doing so, you'll not only invest in high-quality essentials, but also contribute to a business that aligns with your values.
"B*llocks": Boris Johnson at the Covid inquiry
Recent Episodes from The New Statesman Podcast
Ed Davey thinks he could be leader of the opposition
Conference season is underway and Ed Davey sat down with the New Statesman's Rachel Cunliffe to set out his party's ambitions to become the party of opposition.
We also hear from Wes Streeting and the political battle for NHS reform.
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Ed Davey: “The Conservatives are in our sights”
Wes Streeting: “I don’t want to be the fun police”
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Led By Donkeys: "Liz Truss was fair game"
Will Dunn meets the political pranksters who sent Liz Truss fleeing in rage.
**Follow on your podcast app to get new episodes as soon as they're released**
From films detailing Conservative hypocrisy projected on Parliament buildings, to remote-controlled lettuce banners unfurling over the head of the former Prime Minister, Led By Donkeys have been a regular fixture of political activism over the past decade.
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Why is US politics "so mad"?
Freddie Hayward rejoins the podcast in his new role as US correspondent to answer listener questions on the weird world of US politics.
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Read more:
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https://www.newstatesman.com/comment/2024/08/robert-f-kennedy-tulsi-gabbard
Kamala Harris wants to make America nice again
https://www.newstatesman.com/international-politics/2024/08/cnn-interview-kamala-harris
–
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We answer listener questions every Friday. Submit your by commenting on this episode on Spotify, or at www.newstatesman.com/youaskus
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Has Rachel Reeves made a “huge mistake”?
“She’s done an awful lot of damage to morale,” says Andrew Marr.
Hit “Follow” in your podcast app to get new episodes as soon as they publish
Chancellor Rachel Reeves secured a victory in Parliament for her proposed changes to the Winter Fuel allowance.
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Kamala Harris made Trump look like a loser, by Freddie Hayward
https://www.newstatesman.com/international-politics/2024/09/kamala-harris-donald-trump-debate-loser
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Losing Gaza
“We cannot know what sort of human beings will emerge from this.”
Following Hamas’s deadly attack on 7 October 2023, Israel’s military response has been described as “inevitable”. Eleven months on, the scope and ferocity of that military response has stunned the world.
In this episode of the podcast we speak to four of the writers who contributed to the New Statesman essay collection Losing Gaza.
Raja Shehadeh: “Palestinians are not treated as human beings deserving of human rights”
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Is Jeremy Corbyn trolling Keir Starmer?
The former Labour leader’s new coalition could be “a real force” in Parliament, says Andrew Marr.
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Jeremy Corbyn has formed a new “Independent Alliance” of MPs, united around opposition to the Gaza war. Answering a listener question on this “You Ask Us” episode, Andrew Marr says Corbyn could well attract more Labour MPs to his cause. This would make the Independent Alliance bigger than Reform UK, and could influence policy from the Left.
Andrew Marr joins Hannah Barnes and Rachel Cunliffe on this listener questions episode of the podcast. They also discuss Keir Starmer’s plans for UK-EU relations, and whether the Prime Minister will row back on some Brexit agreements.
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Read more:
Andrew Marr on Labour’s battle for Britain
https://www.newstatesman.com/cover-story/2024/09/labours-battle-for-britain
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Grenfell prosecutions are now “essential” - Andrew Marr
The Grenfell report is damning. Will there finally be justice for Grenfell?
--
After seven long years the Grenfell Inquiry has published its damning verdict: the 72 deaths caused by the Grenfell Tower fire were completely avoidable.
The 1500-page report names and shames companies and government bodies who’s choices and actions led to the deaths.
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Read more:
Megan Kenyon on the Grenfell report: failure on an industrial scale https://www.newstatesman.com/politics/uk-politics/2024/09/grenfell-inquiry-failure-on-an-industrial-scale
George Eaton: the Grenfell report is damning for David Cameron
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Can Oasis bring back Cool Britannia?
Noel and Liam Gallagher have managed the impossible. They've apparently buried the hatchet and announced that Oasis is coming back in 2025. Is this the return of Cool Britannia?
Rachel Cunliffe, associate editor, is joined by George Eaton, senior editor, to answer listener questions about ex-MP's jobs, SPADs, and the politics of Britpop.
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"Things will get worse": is austerity back?
On Tuesday morning Keir Starmer addressed the nation and warned that Labour’s first Budget “is going to be painful”, suggesting that tax rises are on the way.
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Rachel Cunliffe, associate political editor, is joined by George Eaton, senior editor.
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Should Labour push harder on immigration?
A listener asks: will Keir Starmer and the Labour government attempt to change the conversation around immigration, or continue with a more hawkish stance in an attempt to win over reform voters?
Hannah Barnes and George Eaton discuss in our latest listener questions episode.
They also answer questions on how the electorate might change by the next election and whether voting reform will have an impact in future.
Send us a question:
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George’s interview with Sadiq Khan: “politicians need to be braver on immigration”
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