Submission on the Government’s Response to Covid-19

In July 2020, the UK Anti-Corruption Coalition submitted to the Public Administration and Constitutional Affairs Committee’s call for evidence on an inquiry into the Government’s response to Covid-19 and the Coronavirus Act 2020.

We believe that a formal public inquiry into the Government’s response to the pandemic is an important opportunity to maintain the public’s trust and confidence and ensure that decisions take in response to the pandemic have been, and will be, made in the public interest.

We recommend that:

• Both statutory and non-statutory responses are needed to ensure that the general public can fully participate.

• The inquiry publishes interim reports as quickly as possible to ensure that any immediate, necessary changes can be made.

• A focus on accountability is important, particularly regarding public contracting and procurement and conflicts of interest, and does not preclude lesson learning or improved policy.

• The devolved administrations are included in any UK Government inquiry to allow for learning and comparison regarding which approaches best served the public interest.

• The Chair should be independent, supported by a panel of renowned experts, and Parliament should play a full and expansive oversight role during the inquiry and oversee the implementation of recommendations through Select Committtees.