I'm sorry too, Sunak tells families of Covid victims

Days after Boris apology, PM vows to learn lessons of crisis

- Tristan Kirk

RISHI SUNAK today told the Covid Inquiry that he was "deeply sorry" for the suffering caused by the pandemic as he faced a grilling over his decisions during the national crisis.

The Prime Minister told chairwoman Baroness Hallett that it was "important that we learn the lessons so that we can be better prepared in the future".

Mr Sunak served as chancellor during the coronavirus pandemic and was responsible for implementing the furlough scheme and the Eat Out To Help Out discount hospitality scheme.

He was dubbed "Dr Death" by a top government scientist after the scheme launched in August 2020.

At the start of his evidence this morning, Mr Sunak said: "I just wanted to start by saying how deeply sorry I am to all of those who lost loved ones, family members through the pandemic, and also all those who suffered in various different ways in the pandemic, and as a result of actions taken. I've thought a lot about this over the past couple of years." He promised "constructive candour" in his evidence session. "It's important that we learn the lessons so that we can be better prepared in the future. It's in that spirit and with enormous respect for all of those who are affected that I'm here today."

Mr Sunak has faced criticism over the Eat Out to Help Out scheme that was launched in August 2020.