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
Lots More with Joe Abate on the Fed's New Target and the Rising Price of Money
NeutralFinancial Markets
In a recent discussion, Joe Abate sheds light on the Federal Reserve's new target and its implications for funding markets. As the price of money rises, understanding these changes becomes crucial for investors and businesses alike. This conversation highlights the evolving landscape of finance and the importance of staying informed.
Lots More on the Fed’s Target and the Price of Money (Podcast)
NeutralFinancial Markets
In a recent podcast, Dallas Fed President Lorie Logan discussed the complexities of the Federal Reserve's approach to interest rates, suggesting that the current fed funds target may be outdated. This conversation is significant as it highlights potential shifts in monetary policy that could impact how banks manage their reserves and influence the broader economy.
Shopify stock price target raised to $200 from $180 at Rothschild Redburn
PositiveFinancial Markets
Shopify's stock price target has been raised from $180 to $200 by Rothschild Redburn, signaling strong confidence in the company's growth potential. This adjustment reflects positive market sentiment and suggests that investors can expect continued strong performance from Shopify, which is crucial for those looking to invest in e-commerce.
Stock Market Today: Dow Futures, Treasury Yields Rise as Shutdown Enters Day Three
PositiveFinancial Markets
The stock market is showing positive signs as Dow futures and treasury yields rise, even as the government shutdown enters its third day. This uptick is encouraging for investors, especially with European and Japanese stocks also gaining ground. It highlights a resilient market that may be able to weather political uncertainties, making it an important moment for economic observers.
Futures edge higher, services ISM ahead - what’s moving markets
PositiveFinancial Markets
Futures are showing a positive trend as investors await the upcoming services ISM report, which is expected to provide insights into the economy's performance. This report is crucial as it can influence market sentiment and trading strategies, making it a key focus for traders looking to navigate the current economic landscape.
Yageo succeeds in $740 million tender offer for Shibaura Electronics, filing shows
PositiveFinancial Markets
Yageo has successfully completed a $740 million tender offer for Shibaura Electronics, marking a significant milestone in the electronics industry. This acquisition not only strengthens Yageo's market position but also enhances its product offerings, which is crucial in a competitive landscape. Investors and stakeholders are optimistic about the potential synergies and growth opportunities that this merger could bring.