Breaking: Boris Johnson’s Covid WhatsApp messages finally recovered for UK inquiry
Long-lost WhatsApps unlocked
A major breakthrough in the UK Covid inquiry has come after Boris Johnson’s WhatsApp messages from before May 2021 were finally downloaded. The key messages could reveal crucial details about the government’s pandemic decisions. The delay? Johnson couldn’t remember the passcode to his old phone, and technicians were wary of entering the wrong code and wiping the data.
PIN code found, messages recovered
Last week, officials struck gold – they found a record of Johnson’s forgotten PIN. This allowed experts to unlock the device and retrieve all relevant WhatsApp chats. A government spokesman confirmed these messages are now undergoing security checks by the Cabinet Office before being handed over to the inquiry. The speed of release is now in the Cabinet Office’s hands.
Messages involve top players including Rishi Sunak
The inquiry requested WhatsApp group chats linked to the pandemic response, plus private exchanges between Johnson and around 40 politicians, advisers, and officials — including Chancellor 1 and Cabinet Secretary Simon Case.
The government initially tried to block the release of unredacted messages, claiming some chats were irrelevant. But the High Court ordered the full messages handed over without redactions.
Public access still uncertain
The released messages won’t necessarily be seen in full by the public. The Cabinet Office may request redactions before sharing the content with core inquiry participants — including other witnesses, government bodies, and bereaved family groups. The inquiry itself could also limit what is made public or keep parts confidential.
What’s next?
These recovered WhatsApp messages could finally peel back the curtain on how and why three lockdowns were ordered in 2020, giving fresh insight into Boris Johnson’s handling of the crisis. As the inquiry presses on, the nation waits for more answers and transparency at the very top of government decision-making during the pandemic.
