UK Covid-19 Inquiry: Pandemic Preparedness Report

The UK Covid-19 Inquiry's first report, to be released at 12pm, will focus on the nation's readiness for the pandemic and potential failures in preparedness. It will highlight the high Covid-19 fatality rates in the UK and address issues such as under-preparedness, lack of protective measures for vulnerable groups, and reliance on flu-based planning. The inquiry aims to learn from past mistakes to save future lives, with subsequent reports set to explore governance and decision-making during the pandemic. Former Prime Minister Boris Johnson's role in ordering the inquiry, subsequent scandals, and the government's distraction by Brexit will also be scrutinized. The report is expected to contrast the UK's preparedness with countries like Taiwan and South Korea, known for more effective responses to previous coronaviruses.