The UK Covid-19 Inquiry has cost £94 million so far and is on track to become the most expensive statutory inquiry in British history, according to new research by the TaxPayers' Alliance. The probe, chaired by Baroness Heather Hallett, was established in June 2022 and is scheduled to run until at least summer 2026.
The TaxPayers' Alliance estimates the total cost could reach £196 million, equivalent to around £136,907 per day. This would surpass the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse, making it the most costly inquiry both in total and on a per-day basis. The inquiry is already the second most expensive since 2005, adjusted for inflation.
The inquiry examines government decision-making during the pandemic, including lockdowns and social distancing rules. Senior figures such as former Prime Minister Boris Johnson, Chief Medical Officer Professor Chris Whitty, and former Health Secretary Matt Hancock have given evidence. Lord Saville of Newdigate, who led the Bloody Sunday inquiry, noted that such probes require highly skilled personnel and are inherently expensive but vital for learning lessons.
Critics have questioned the inquiry's format. Professor Carl Heneghan of Oxford University argued that a legalistic approach is not the best way to learn lessons, suggesting a more medical, error-accepting approach would be cheaper and more effective. A spokesperson for the inquiry said the government set its broad terms of reference, and the inquiry is obliged to gather evidence from many organisations. The government confirmed it is committed to publishing its costs for transparency.
