Former Aide's Shocking Revelation
In a surprising revelation, Dominic Cummings, former top aide to Prime Minister Boris Johnson, claimed that Johnson asked the UK's chief doctor if using a blowdryer up the nose could cure Covid-19. Cummings submitted this evidence to the Covid Inquiry, stating that Johnson was inspired by a YouTube video suggesting that hair styling tools could help end the pandemic.
A "Low Point" of the Pandemic
Cummings criticized Johnson's question, calling it a "low point" of the pandemic. He stated that Johnson shared a video of a man using a special hairdryer to "kill Covid" and asked the Chief Scientific Adviser and Chief Medical Officer for their opinions.
Expletive-Laden Texts and Whitehall Chaos
During his evidence session, Cummings also revealed expletive-laden texts where he referred to top ministers as "c***s" and "morons." He described the state of Whitehall pandemic planning as "terrifyingly s***" and blamed health officials for lying to cover it up. The chaotic early days of the outbreak were laid bare as Cummings criticized Johnson's leadership.
Revealing WhatsApp Messages
Daytime TV presenters had to apologize for the language as Cummings' sweary WhatsApp messages were read out live. Despite the language, Cummings stood by his judgment of senior officials and criticized their handling of the pandemic.
A Rough Ride and Barnard Castle Dash
Cummings faced tough questioning over his notorious Barnard Castle trip during lockdown. He admitted that the saga caused pain to many and described the handling as a "disaster." He also expressed disbelief that someone like him was brought into No10 to work.
The "Terrifyingly S***" Cabinet Office
In another exchange, Cummings warned Johnson that the Cabinet Office was a "bomb site" and a "dumpster fire." He criticized its lack of coordination during the pandemic.
Overall, Cummings' evidence shed light on the chaotic decision-making and lack of planning during the early days of the pandemic. The hairdryer cure inquiry revelation adds another layer to the criticism faced by the UK government's handling of the crisis.
