The UK Covid-19 Inquiry and Scottish COVID-19 Inquiry publish details on how they will work together
The UK Covid-19 Inquiry and the Scottish COVID-19 Inquiry have today published an agreement, setting out how they will work together.
Lord Brailsford, Chair of the Scottish COVID-19 Inquiry met with Baroness Heather Hallett, Chair of the UK Covid-19 Inquiry to agree a memorandum of understanding to minimise duplication of investigation, evidence gathering and reporting.
The Memorandum of Understanding, signed by both Inquiries, includes commitments to provide clear information to the public about how each Inquiry will carry out its investigations in Scotland, minimise duplication of work through information sharing and maximise value for money.
Baroness Heather Hallett, Chair of the UK Covid-19 Inquiry, said:
“It is vital that our two Inquiries provide clarity for people in Scotland, particularly those most impacted by the pandemic, on how we will work together. Doing so will mean that we can answer as many questions as possible about the UK’s response to the pandemic, and all learn lessons for the future.”
“The publication of the memorandum of understanding is an important first step in underlining our commitment to work together and providing clarity for people in Scotland on how each Inquiry is fulfilling its Terms of Reference in relation to Scottish matters.”
Lord Brailsford, Chair of the Scottish COVID-19 Inquiry, said:
“This agreement reflects an understanding between both Inquiries as to how we will seek to avoid duplication and enhance public understanding of each other’s work, including our parallel public engagement exercises.
“By working together we aim to ensure no issues fall through gaps and that we share information and plans, for the benefit of the people of Scotland.”
The inquiries will meet at least monthly, and will share information on those topics that are within both Inquiries’ Terms of Reference, that set the scope for each inquiry.
Both Inquiries have also committed to exploring opportunities to share facilities for hearings in Scotland.