Covid-19 Departmental Effectiveness 2023-11-23
2023-11-23
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Direct Answer
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Context
The MP references ongoing discussions and assessments regarding the effectiveness of government departments, particularly in managing the COVID-19 crisis.
What recent assessment has been made of the effectiveness of his Department during the covid-19 pandemic?
The Cabinet Office played a crucial role in co-ordinating the cross-Government response to the pandemic, and we continue to learn lessons from it. Last year, the Cabinet Office published the resilience framework, an ambitious, wide-reaching and long-term plan that is already working to strengthen our national resilience.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP references shocking revelations from the COVID-19 inquiry, including quotes from Sir Patrick Vallance's diary and allegations about the PM's decision-making.
Does the Secretary of State agree with me that this shows a shameful disregard for people's lives and callous decision making at the heart of Government?
I should say from the outset that I simply do not recognise that characterisation, but that is the whole point of the inquiry. This Government set up the inquiry, for the sake of the victims and the nation, to get to the bottom of what was an unprecedented crisis not just here, but around the world. We have been totally open and transparent with that inquiry. We have given it over 56,000 pieces of evidence.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not directly address whether he agrees with the MP's interpretation of the PM's statements
I Simply Do Not Recognise That Characterisation
Response accuracy
Q3
Direct Answer
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Context
The MP acknowledges the professionalism of the civil servants during the pandemic and suggests ways to strengthen analytical skills.
Does my right hon. Friend agree with me that the civil service really stood up to the challenge of dealing with imperfect data and a rapidly changing situation?
I thank my right hon. Friend for her question, and I pay tribute to her for her many years of service in the Cabinet. I agree with her characterisation of the civil service. Indeed, in my time working in various ministerial roles, I have seen true professionalism and dedication. However, I think she is absolutely right that we need to improve both our data analytics and the data flow into Government.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP questions the transparency regarding the availability and submission of Prime Minister's WhatsApp messages to the inquiry.
Can the Deputy Prime Minister confirm that all the Prime Minister's WhatsApp messages for this period will be made available to the inquiry?
I can assure the right hon. Gentleman that we will furnish the inquiry with every single piece of information it requires. Indeed, I would note that the Prime Minister and all those who are requested to provide information to the inquiry are legally obliged to do so. That is precisely what we have done. My Department alone has provided over 56,000 different pieces of evidence.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not confirm if all WhatsApp messages will be made available; only stated that PM and others are legally obliged to provide information
We Have Provided Over 56,000 Different Pieces Of Evidence
Response accuracy