UK: COVID-19 Inquiry Told Sunak's Isolation Pay Stance Cost Lives

Published MAY 29 2025

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Above: Former Conservative Prime Minister Rishi Sunak speaks to the media as he leaves 10 Downing Street following Labour's landslide election victory on July 5, 2024 in London, England Image credit: Dan Kitwood/Staff/Getty Images News via Getty Images

The Spin

Pro-establishment narrative

Criticism of Sunak’s approach ignores the reality of governing during a crisis. As Chancellor, it was his duty to ensure economic stability and weigh tough trade-offs. Lockdowns and isolation had real costs, and Sunak brought essential balance to decision-making. Calls for blame now risk oversimplifying complex, good-faith choices under pressure.

19 Inquiry hearings documentation

Establishment-critical narrative

Sunak must answer these serious allegations. His refusal to fund proper self-isolation support, despite budget room and clear evidence it would save lives, was a political choice with deadly consequences. The public deserves answers instead of continued silence. Dodging accountability only deepens the injustice felt by bereaved families.

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