VIP lanes and 25m faulty gowns: what PPE Medpro trial reveals about Tory response to Covid

The GuardianWednesday, October 1, 2025 at 9:45:54 AM
VIP lanes and 25m faulty gowns: what PPE Medpro trial reveals about Tory response to Covid
The recent trial involving a company linked to Michelle Mone has unveiled troubling details about the UK government's response to the COVID pandemic, particularly regarding the awarding of contracts. The case highlighted the pressure to prioritize political connections over quality, as evidenced by the procurement of 25 million faulty gowns. This situation raises significant concerns about accountability and transparency in government dealings during a crisis, emphasizing the need for reform in how public contracts are awarded to ensure that public health is not compromised.
— Curated by the World Pulse Now AI Editorial System

Was this article worth reading? Share it

Recommended Readings
Michelle Mone says she won't step down as Tory peer - and accuses chancellor of 'endangering' her
NegativeFinancial Markets
Baroness Michelle Mone has announced that she will not resign from the House of Lords despite pressure following a significant financial ruling against PPE Medpro, a company linked to her husband. The firm has been ordered to repay £122 million to the government due to supplying faulty personal protective equipment during the COVID-19 pandemic. This situation raises serious questions about accountability and the integrity of public figures in politics, especially in light of the ongoing scrutiny over government contracts.
Michelle Mone says she won't step down as Tory peer - and accuses chancellor of 'endangering' her
NegativeFinancial Markets
Baroness Michelle Mone has announced that she will not resign from the House of Lords despite pressure following a significant financial ruling against PPE Medpro, a company linked to her husband. The firm has been ordered to repay £122 million to the government due to supplying faulty personal protective equipment during the COVID-19 pandemic. This situation raises serious questions about accountability and the integrity of public figures in politics, especially in light of the ongoing scrutiny over government contracts.
Can firm linked to Tory peer afford to pay back govt after PPE contract breach?
NeutralFinancial Markets
The legal case between the Department of Health and Social Care and PPE Medpro Limited raises important questions about accountability in government contracts, especially those related to pandemic supplies. While the case doesn't directly involve Michelle Mone or the controversial VIP fast lanes, it highlights ongoing concerns about how public funds are managed and the implications of contract breaches. This matter is significant as it could set precedents for future government dealings and ensure that companies are held responsible for their commitments.
Can firm linked to Tory peer afford to pay back govt after PPE contract breach?
NeutralFinancial Markets
The legal case between the Department of Health and Social Care and PPE Medpro Limited raises important questions about accountability in government contracts, especially those related to pandemic supplies. While the case doesn't directly involve Michelle Mone or the controversial VIP fast lanes, it highlights ongoing concerns about how public funds are managed and the implications of contract breaches. This matter is significant as it could set precedents for future government dealings and ensure that companies are held responsible for their commitments.
UK government resumes row with Apple by demanding access to British users’ data
NegativeFinancial Markets
The UK government is reigniting its dispute with Apple by demanding access to encrypted data stored in the company's cloud service, specifically targeting British users. This move raises significant concerns about data privacy and security, as it could set a precedent for government overreach into personal information. The Home Office's insistence on a backdoor into Apple's systems highlights the ongoing tension between tech companies and government authorities regarding user privacy rights.
UK government resumes row with Apple by demanding access to British users’ data
NegativeFinancial Markets
The UK government is reigniting its dispute with Apple by demanding access to encrypted data stored in the company's cloud service, specifically targeting British users. This move raises significant concerns about data privacy and security, as it could set a precedent for government overreach into personal information. The Home Office's insistence on a backdoor into Apple's systems highlights the ongoing tension between tech companies and government authorities regarding user privacy rights.
UK government wins £122m pandemic case against Michelle Mone-linked firm over faulty PPE
PositiveFinancial Markets
The UK government has successfully won a £122 million legal case against PPE Medpro, a company associated with Conservative peer Michelle Mone, over the supply of 25 million faulty surgical gowns. These gowns, intended to protect NHS staff, were deemed unusable and posed serious risks to patient safety. This victory is significant as it highlights the government's commitment to accountability and safety in healthcare, especially during the pandemic, ensuring that such negligence does not go unpunished.
UK government wins £122m pandemic case against Michelle Mone-linked firm over faulty PPE
PositiveFinancial Markets
The UK government has successfully won a £122 million legal case against PPE Medpro, a company associated with Conservative peer Michelle Mone, over the supply of 25 million faulty surgical gowns. These gowns, intended to protect NHS staff, were deemed unusable and posed serious risks to patient safety. This victory is significant as it highlights the government's commitment to accountability and safety in healthcare, especially during the pandemic, ensuring that such negligence does not go unpunished.
Grocer Casino and Ex-CEO Risk Big Fines at Paris Market Abuse Trial
NegativeFinancial Markets
Jean-Charles Naouri, the former CEO of Casino Guichard Perrachon SA, is facing serious allegations of stock price manipulation as he stands trial in Paris. This case is significant as it highlights the ongoing scrutiny of corporate governance and market practices in France, raising concerns about accountability in the financial sector.
Firm linked to Tory peer Michelle Mone breached £122m PPE contract, judge rules
NegativeFinancial Markets
A recent ruling by the High Court has found that a company associated with Tory peer Michelle Mone violated a significant government contract worth nearly £122 million for supplying surgical gowns during the COVID-19 pandemic. This breach raises serious concerns about accountability and transparency in government contracts, especially during a public health crisis when timely access to medical supplies was critical.
Firm linked to Tory peer Michelle Mone breached £122m PPE contract, judge rules
NegativeFinancial Markets
A recent ruling by the High Court has found that a company associated with Tory peer Michelle Mone violated a significant government contract worth nearly £122 million for supplying surgical gowns during the COVID-19 pandemic. This breach raises serious concerns about accountability and transparency in government contracts, especially during a public health crisis when timely access to medical supplies was critical.
Uber found not liable in first US trial over driver sexual assault claims
NeutralFinancial Markets
In a landmark decision, a jury found Uber not liable in the first U.S. trial concerning claims of sexual assault by a driver. This case is significant as it sets a precedent for how ride-sharing companies may be held accountable for the actions of their drivers. The outcome could influence future legal battles and the policies these companies implement to ensure passenger safety.
Latest from Financial Markets
Garanti BBVA board approves $50 billion asset-backed securities plan
PositiveFinancial Markets
Garanti BBVA's board has approved a significant $50 billion asset-backed securities plan, marking a pivotal moment for the bank as it aims to enhance its financial stability and expand its investment portfolio. This move is expected to attract more investors and strengthen the bank's position in the market, showcasing its commitment to innovative financial solutions.
Fire breaks out at Chevron’s refinery in El Segundo
NegativeFinancial Markets
A fire has erupted at Chevron's refinery in El Segundo, raising concerns about safety and environmental impact. This incident is significant as it highlights the ongoing risks associated with industrial operations, especially in densely populated areas. The local community is understandably anxious about potential disruptions and health hazards, making it crucial for Chevron to address the situation promptly and transparently.
Garanti BBVA receives approval for $100m USD and €15m bond issuance
PositiveFinancial Markets
Garanti BBVA has successfully received approval for a significant bond issuance, amounting to $100 million USD and €15 million. This move is crucial as it not only strengthens the bank's financial position but also enhances its ability to support various projects and investments. The approval reflects confidence in Garanti BBVA's stability and growth potential, making it an important development in the financial sector.
Universal Robina stock rating upgraded to Neutral by JPMorgan after 20% decline
PositiveFinancial Markets
JPMorgan has upgraded Universal Robina's stock rating to Neutral following a significant 20% decline in its value. This change reflects a more optimistic outlook for the company, suggesting that it may be poised for recovery. Investors may find this news encouraging as it indicates potential stabilization in the stock's performance, making it a point of interest for those looking to invest.
JSW Steel stock rating upgraded by Kotak on robust growth pipeline
PositiveFinancial Markets
JSW Steel has received an upgraded stock rating from Kotak, reflecting a strong growth pipeline that is expected to enhance the company's market position. This upgrade is significant as it indicates investor confidence in JSW Steel's future performance, potentially attracting more investment and boosting stock prices.
BMO Capital initiates Canada Packers stock with Market Perform rating
NeutralFinancial Markets
BMO Capital has initiated coverage of Canada Packers with a Market Perform rating, indicating a cautious outlook on the company's stock performance. This move is significant as it reflects BMO's assessment of the company's potential in the market, which could influence investor decisions and market dynamics.