Sturgeon Calls Boris Johnson "Clown" in Covid Inquiry
Explosive revelations unfolded at the ongoing UK COVID inquiry today as former Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon's candid WhatsApp messages were laid bare. The inquiry, taking place in Edinburgh, provided a behind-the-scenes look at Sturgeon's unfiltered opinions, including her description of Boris Johnson as "a fucking clown" during the announcement of a second COVID lockdown in October 2020.
Sturgeon's former chief of staff and strategic adviser, Liz Lloyd, testified during the inquiry, offering insights into the dynamic between Sturgeon and the former UK Prime Minister. According to Lloyd, the relationship had strained but stopped short of a complete breakdown, with Sturgeon expressing frustration at Johnson's "utter incompetence."
The revelations also raised questions about the decision-making process during the pandemic. Contrary to Sturgeon's previous assertions that the Scottish government's COVID response was not conducted through informal messaging, the inquiry presented WhatsApp exchanges suggesting detailed discussions on pandemic restrictions and strategy.
Lloyd, who served as Sturgeon's chief of staff from 2015 to 2023, faced questions about the nature of these exchanges. Notably, messages discussed topics such as the number of attendees allowed at weddings and a potential confrontation with the UK government over furlough policy. These exchanges seemed to challenge Sturgeon's claim that her government's COVID response was conducted through formal channels.
The inquiry also highlighted concerns about transparency and accountability, as it was revealed that Sturgeon, along with other officials, had deleted informal messages. Lloyd defended this action, stating that the essential information was recorded in official government records. However, this revelation follows a pattern of officials deleting messages, sparking public outcry over transparency issues.
Lloyd's testimony marks a significant development in the inquiry, providing a glimpse into the inner workings of the Scottish government during the critical phases of the COVID-19 pandemic. As the inquiry progresses, more light is expected to be shed on the decision-making processes and communication dynamics that shaped Scotland's response to the unprecedented crisis.
