The Most Expensive Reality TV Show?
The UK's Covid Inquiry is becoming a costly spectacle, with £100 million being spent on ministers, civil servants, and experts arguing over who's to blame. Rather than watching this political drama unfold, I'd rather tune in to 'I'm a Celeb'.
Two Stages for a More Effective Inquiry
Back in early 2021, I suggested that the inquiry should be conducted in two stages. The first stage would focus on developing the best model for handling future pandemics, while the second stage would delve into the details of what went right and wrong during the Covid crisis.
Are Inquiries Meant to Deliver Answers?
It's puzzling that inquiries, by definition, are supposed to provide answers. However, the current Covid Inquiry seems to be restricting the scope of discussion, leaving us with few real answers.
Don't Shy Away from Divisive Issues
Controversial topics should not be tiptoed around during inquiries. In fact, they should be the subject of intense debate. Unfortunately, it appears that the bigwigs leading the inquiry believe these matters are already settled.
Considering the Lab Leak Theory
There is some credibility to the theory that the virus may have been man-made, intentionally or accidentally. Leading scientists and medical experts have not dismissed this possibility, and it should not be brushed aside as a conspiracy theory.
The Implications for Future Research
If it is determined that the virus was indeed man-made, it would have significant implications for the regulation of 'Gain of Function' medical research. The risks associated with this type of research are immense, especially if it is being conducted in China, a country with a questionable track record. These concerns should not be ignored.
Silencing Alternative Voices
Those who raise concerns or suggest the lab leak theory have been shut down and censored by social media platforms and fact-checkers. The Covid Inquiry should not follow the example of Big Tech's censorship, but rather seek genuine answers.
Preparing for Future Health Threats
Regardless of the truth behind the origins of Covid, these questions have significant implications for our response to future health emergencies. Recent cases of swine flu in humans and respiratory illnesses in Chinese children serve as reminders that the threat of another pandemic is not a matter of "if," but "when."
Examining China's Role in the Pandemic
We must thoroughly investigate China's actions in the early stages of the pandemic and hold them accountable for any failures to contain the virus. While it is unlikely that China intentionally created and released the virus, we should not shy away from asking tough questions.
A Lack of Clue and Ignored Voices
The Covid Inquiry has revealed that many decision-makers during the crisis lacked a proper understanding of the science and made poor choices. Additionally, alternative voices that could have potentially saved lives were ignored or silenced.
Lessons Not Learned
The reaction to Michael Gove's comments questioning the origins of the virus shows that we haven't learned from our mistakes. This does not bode well for the next pandemic, which could strike at any time. It's clear that we are not adequately prepared.
