Scottish Government Accused of Deleting WhatsApp Messages Key to UK Covid-19 Inquiry

National clinical director Jason Leitch reportedly deleted WhatsApp communications daily, despite "do not destroy" orders issued by both UK and Scottish Covid inquiries. Critics demand accountability and transparency in handling of pandemic.

Scottish national clinical director, Jason Leitch, allegedly deleted his WhatsApp communications daily, despite 'do not destroy' orders issued by UK and Scottish Covid inquiries.
The Scottish government insists that WhatsApp was not used for decision-making, and that all relevant records from the official record have been provided to the UK Covid-19 inquiry.
Both UK and Scottish inquiries issued orders last year instructing participants not to destroy electronic communications related to the pandemic. Leitch's daily deletion of WhatsApp messages means related communications from the pandemic period would have been destroyed.
At least 137 informal messaging groups, including WhatsApp, were reportedly used during Scotland's Covid response. Jamie Dawson KC, counsel to the inquiry, states few messages appear to have been retained.
There are claims that critical information has not been handed over to the Covid-19 inquiry. First Minister Humza Yousaf pledged that 'all relevant information' will be handed over and has ordered a full investigation into the concerns raised.