Rishi Sunak to face Covid-19 inquiry questions as probe into government’s response to pandemic continues: Latest

Rishi Sunak will face questions at the Covid-19 inquiry on Monday as the investigation into the government’s response to the pandemic continues.

The former prime minister, who was chancellor at the height of the outbreak, was branded “Dr Death” by health chiefs after reports he opposed extreme lockdown measures, the inquiry heard earlier.

He presided over the discounted Eat Out to Help Out scheme, which government scientists say is “most likely” to increase Covid infections and deaths. Giving evidence to the inquiry earlier, the government’s chief scientific adviser, Sir Patrick Vallance, said the government had “completely reversed” its message that mixing was high risk.

Mr Sunak defended the plan, describing it as a “micro-policy” within the government’s overall plans to reopen after lockdown.

He was also quoted as saying that the government should “let people die” rather than impose a second national lockdown during the pandemic.

On Monday he is expected to answer further questions about his policies and reports of a “toxic” climate in Downing Street.

The inquiry will examine the government’s response to the outbreak that has shut down large parts of the economy and killed more than 220,000 people in Britain. It is planned to continue until summer 2026.

Mr Sunak to talk about economic approach to pandemic

Rishi Sunak will speak about the government’s economic approach to the pandemic on Monday.

The independent inquiry comes as the government begins to examine the fiscal policies adopted during the pandemic and their impact.

Mr Sunak had previously given evidence in the ‘fundamental decision-making and political management’ section of the inquiry.

But on Monday he will talk about the economic policies he pursued during his time as chancellor.

Nicole Wootton-Cane15 December 2025 08:24

Rishi Sunak will give evidence in Covid inquiry

Former prime minister Rishi Sunak will give evidence into the Covid-19 inquiry on Monday.

Mr Sunak, who became chancellor during the pandemic, has previously spoken about the inquiry in 2023.

He has previously been questioned over his Eat Out to Help Out scheme, WhatsApp messages he sent during lockdown and claims of a “toxic” environment in Downing Street.

He is expected to begin testifying around 10:30 a.m. Monday.

Nicole Wootton-Cane15 December 2025 08:14