An unhappy struggle between panto and principle: the Covid inquiry’s winners and losers so far

The constant flow of expletive-filled revelations from Baroness Hallett’s Covid inquiry has been a shocking reminder of the government’s failings in office during the pandemic, writes Sean O’Grady. Buckle up for more big names wielding the cudgel over the coming months

Were Johnson’s reputation for probity and competence not already shredded he would have suffered most from the testimony (PA)

After a slow start, the UK Covid-19 Inquiry, also known as the Hallett inquiry after its chair, Baroness Heather Hallett, has been producing some sensational content, as we say these days.

The witness statements from, and cross-examination of, Dominic Cummings and Helen MacNamara have grabbed the headlines and damaged the reputations of many of the players in this “drama” – not least Boris Johnson.

The constant flow of revelations has also been – especially for the Conservatives – an unwelcome reminder of their failings in office during this transcendent crisis. While many voters will have long ago made their minds up about the party and its leadership, the inquiry – which would have only been getting into its stride had the general election been held as expected in the summer of 2023 – will intrude into the world of politics next year and beyond...