Ministers Prioritized Health Impact over Economic Fallout, Covid Inquiry Hears
The government's focus on the health impact of the pandemic overshadowed the economic consequences, according to Business Secretary Kemi Badenoch during a Covid inquiry. Badenoch suggested that more attention should have been given to the financial impact on households caused by the virus.
Economic Impact Neglected, School Absence Rates Remain High
Badenoch also highlighted that school absence rates have not returned to pre-pandemic levels due to anxiety and a lack of mental health support, as children often struggle to leave home.
"We Should Have Looked at the Economic Impact of Lockdown"
During the Covid inquiry, Badenoch expressed her belief that the government should have focused more on the economic impact of lockdown rather than solely on the health side. She emphasized that the consequences of the pandemic, such as missing children in schools, are related to the economic fallout.
Government Struggles with Misinformation and Conspiracy Theories
Badenoch revealed that she has been targeted by conspiracy theorists and criticized the government for not effectively addressing misinformation. She acknowledged that the government has not adapted to the rapid spread of information through social media and called for action to address this issue.
Lessons from the Pandemic: Addressing the Impact of Social Media
According to Badenoch, the pandemic has highlighted the need to address the challenges posed by social media and the rapid dissemination of information. She emphasized the importance of finding solutions to combat misinformation and its detrimental effects.
