A major UK Covid inquiry report criticises Mark Drakeford’s pandemic response as Wales’ First Minister. While he was called a considerate leader, serious concerns emerge over his handling of the crisis.
The report, led by Baroness Heather Hallett, slams the Welsh Government, noting several key missteps: missing vital meetings, ignoring scientific advice, and delaying critical restrictions. It highlights that Wales had the highest UK Covid mortality rate between August and December 2020, with fatal consequences linked to late or ineffective measures.
The inquiry criticises a crucial trip by Drakeford to a St David’s Day event in Brussels, where he missed a vital cabinet meeting on Covid. Back in March 2020, against scientific advice, the Welsh Government almost allowed the Wales v Scotland Six Nations match to proceed, risking many lives as the virus spread.
A late two-week “firebreak” in October 2020 and the subsequent rapid relaxation of rules contributed to surging cases over winter. Hallett’s report states, “The Welsh Government relaxed restrictions too quickly following the firebreak… leading to the highest age-standardised mortality rate among the four nations.”
Despite criticism that all four UK governments responded too slowly to emerging variants, Drakeford managed to maintain positive cabinet relations during the turmoil. His ministers described him as a careful leader who mostly worked by consensus.
Calls for a tailored Wales-specific inquiry have intensified, with critics arguing the overall strategy lacked clarity. Plaid Cymru and Conservatives demand a deeper investigation to understand the full impact and ensure lessons are learned. As First Minister Eluned Morgan reflects on the findings, she stresses the need to remember the tragic losses and to work towards learning from past mistakes for the future.
Heledd Fychan of Plaid Cymru labelled the report a “damning condemnation” of the UK and Welsh Governments, highlighting the severity of decisions taken and their profound human cost. As the debate around a dedicated Welsh inquiry continues, the report underscores the need for transparency and accountability.