COVID-19 Inquiry
— Former PM Boris Johnson faced fierce criticism for his comments about lockdown parties held in Downing Street during his testimony to the COVID inquiry on Thursday.
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UK Politics
— A new survey reveals a widespread public mistrust in Boris Johnson’s management of the COVID-19 pandemic during his premiership. The results indicate a considerable trust deficit that may have repercussions on the former PM’s political influence and potential future political endeavours.
UK Politics
— The return of the debate on politicians in reality TV is highlighted by Nigel Farage’s participation in I’m a Celeb. A recent YouGov survey reflects mixed public opinions on the suitability of politicians in reality TV.
Climate Change
— The Government’s resistance to revealing the risks in their net zero plans, including Rishi Sunak’s private jet controversy, suggests hidden flaws. The upcoming legal battle may force transparency, exposing the truth. Time for climate accountability.
Brexit
— While Ursula von der Leyen recently acknowledged mistakes made by European leaders in handling Britain’s departure from the EU, in contrast, Rishi Sunak reaffirms his commitment to Brexit.
UK Government
— NHS England has awarded a significant data contract to Palantir, a US tech company co-founded by entrepreneur Peter Thiel. This decision has sparked controversy, considering Thiel’s critical stance on the NHS and raised questions about data security and transparency.
UK Politics
— Environment Secretary Steve Barclay received a £3,000 donation from climate change sceptic Sir Michael Hintze, raising concerns about Barclay’s stance on environmental issues and potential conflicts of interest, prompting scrutiny of the government’s commitment to environmental goals.
PPE Scandal
— A firm linked to a major Conservative Party donor received £546,000 in PPE storage contracts from the Department of Health and Social Care. The timing of these contracts and donations raises concerns about potential influence and transparency in contract allocation.
Public Health
— The ZOE Health Study team has faced challenges maintaining accurate COVID-19 data due to declining app contributors. In response, they’ve made the decision to suspend live COVID-19 reporting.
COVID-19
— The US Government is set to reintroduce a free COVID-19 home testing programme next week. This initiative acknowledges the ongoing threat of COVID-19 variants. After a period where free testing became scarce, the move aims to provide accessible testing options once again.
COVID-19 VIP Lane
— The Department of Health and Social Care has made undisclosed payments totalling £137 million to a company owned by healthcare tech magnate Frank Hester, who donated £5 million to the Conservative Party.
Anti-Net Zero Populism
— Rishi Sunak’s decision to slow down the UK’s shift to electric vehicles, postpone climate targets and scrap other plans have stirred up strong reactions from various quarters, including his own party. Does it make him a strong leader?
RAAC
— In England, a significant number of schools are currently dealing with structural issues caused by the use of reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC). The government has already updated the list of affected schools as investigations continue.
Immigration
— Keir Starmer unveiled how he would tackle the UK’s immigration and asylum issues if elected. Promising a fresh approach, he aims to crack down on people-smuggling gangs and work more closely with the European Union.
Health & Safety
— A troubling series of events surrounding contaminated chicken, the lapse in food safety regulation, the Government’s lack of timely action and poor communication, and the continuing public health threat that is far from over.
War in Ukraine
— The revelation that Elon Musk halted Starlink services near Crimea during a Ukrainian drone operation, stemming from a biography of the multi-billionaire, showcases the profound impact tech leaders can have in geopolitical affairs.
