ADPH contribution to the Covid-19 Public Inquiry

Module One of the Covid-19 Inquiry examined the state of the UK’s structures and the procedures in place to prepare for and respond to a pandemic.

ADPH was a Core Participant, which meant we provided a series of statements and evidence to the Inquiry, alongside current and former politicians as well as key scientists, experts, civil servants and bereaved family members.

1. In October 2022, we submitted an outline submission to the Module 1 Preliminary Hearing.
2. In April 2023, we submitted our written evidence, which included a witness statement and summary report from a survey of our membership.
3. On 14 June 2023, our opening statement was delivered by Steven Ford KC.
4. On 05 July 2023, ADPH President, Prof Jim McManus gave evidence and submitted a full witness statement.
5. On 18 July 2023, our closing statement was delivered by Steven Ford KC.

On the 18th July 2024, the Inquiry released its Module 1 report findings and recommendations. The report concludes that the UK Government and devolved administrations’ systems of emergency planning, preparedness, resilience and response failed. Risk assessment was flawed, institutions, systems and structures were overly complex and not properly focussed and lessons from the past were not heeded. It also reported that there was too little involvement in the planning process of local bodies and officials, including DsPH.