Covid-19 Pandemic: Government Response

Debate between Steven Bonnar and William Wragg

Thursday 17th September 2020 Commons Chamber

[Mr Wragg]

I thank my hon. Friend for that and for his contribution to the Committee’s work. Time is indeed of the essence, as there will be an inevitable lag period before such an inquiry can begin taking evidence, and we should use that time wisely, as he suggests.

[Steven Bonnar (Coatbridge, Chryston and Bellshill) (SNP) [V]]

One of the main issues facing the effectiveness of any inquiry will be the difference in approach across the four nations and whether evidence presented has been evidence-based or politically driven. Does the hon. Member therefore agree that the devolved Governments should be afforded access to evidence-based decision making by the UK Government that has had a direct impact on the devolved Governments’ ability to respond to the pandemic?

[Mr Wragg]

I thank the hon. Gentleman for his question, but it would be for the inquiry to require that evidence if it was based on a statutory footing.