We'll Need Strong, Decisive Leadership To Defeat Pandemic

Our country is staring down the barrel of another coronavirus crisis, according to the Government. “It’s not looking good,” said Downing Street at the weekend. As infections rise and hospital admissions double every week, ministers talk of the need to prevent a “second wave”.

- Leo McKinstry

Professor Neil Ferguson, the scientist whose controversial modelling has guided the Government’s strategy, claims that unless action is taken Britain faces “a perfect storm” of increasing case numbers.

Today, that gloomy message is likely to be backed up by Chris Whitty, the Chief Medical Officer, who will unveil new figures on the spread of the disease. His presentation will form the backdrop to a probable announcement tomorrow by the Prime Minister of tough new measures, including heavy fines, curfews and lockdowns.

In the coming weeks the Government will face its sternest test by far. The extraordinary circumstances of the moment call for robust, decisive leadership, based on a clear strategy, administrative competence and honesty with the public.

BUT sadly those qualities have too often been lacking in the Government’s Covid response so far, where the catalogue of errors includes a delay in imposing the national lockdown, the failure to screen international arrivals, inadequate supplies of protective gear, mixed messages on safety and the current testing fiasco.