The health and social care impact hearings mark the beginning of the statutory inquiry chaired by Lord Brailsford, which is investigating the devolved Scottish government’s strategic response to the pandemic.

Members of the Scottish Covid Bereaved (SCB), represented by lead solicitor Aamer Anwar and Dr Claire Mitchell KC, are among those giving evidence to the inquiry today and Wednesday.

The Scottish Trades Union Congress (STUC) will give evidence on behalf of health and social care workers.

In a statement this morning, Mr Anwar said: “This inquiry carries a heavy responsibility and must be fearless in raising its voice for the truth.

“No person or institution, no matter how powerful, whether it be in England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland, Westminster, or Holyrood, can obstruct the search for truth.”