Responding to yesterday’s publication of the UK Covid-19 Inquiry Module 2 report, the Leader of the WLGA, Councillor Andrew Morgan OBE, said:
“On behalf of Welsh local government, we again thank Baroness Hallett and the Inquiry team for their work. At the heart of this Inquiry are the bereaved families and survivors, and yesterday’s report provides an important opportunity to learn from the decisions taken during the pandemic. We offer our sincere sympathies to all those who lost loved ones and to the many families whose lives were profoundly affected.
“Module 2 looks at how political decisions were made across the UK and the devolved nations, from lockdowns and restrictions to how information was communicated to the public.
“The inquiry found that engagement between national governments, local authorities and partners was not always as early or as consistent as it needed to be. This view was echoed by the WLGA in its evidence. We welcome the recommendations for stronger and more practical arrangements to involve local government from the outset are essential for future emergencies.
“The report also notes the collective approach taken within Welsh Government, and we welcome the acknowledgement of the constructive working relationships that developed in Wales during this period. However, there are lessons for all governments in how information is shared, how decisions are coordinated, and how the wider impacts on communities are considered.
“We also welcome the recommendations aimed at improving future planning and preparedness. These include clearer intergovernmental forums, more consistent use of civil emergency powers, and better coordination with local authorities throughout any future pandemic response.
“Local government played a central role during Covid-19, supporting vulnerable people, maintaining essential services, and working alongside partners in incredibly challenging circumstances. We also want to recognise the extraordinary dedication and hard work of local government staff across Wales, who went above and beyond to support their communities throughout the pandemic. It is positive that the Inquiry has reflected our evidence and recognised the importance of local government in any future response.
“The Inquiry has challenged the key public bodies in Wales, including local government, to be better prepared for the future. We will now take time to examine yesterdays findings in full and will work closely with Welsh Government and our partners to ensure the recommendations lead to real improvements in preparedness and resilience across Wales.”
“We would welcome urgency in making a collective response in Wales to the Inquiry recommendations from Modules 1 and 2 together.”