(EXCLUSIVE) Boris Johnson: "They Were Looking at Engineering the Virus & The Government Bribed Me!"

Intro (0s)

• Boris Johnson addresses accusations of breaking rules during gatherings at Number 10, expressing regret and apologizing for allowing such events to happen, especially when others could not attend funerals. (0s)
• Johnson, a former UK Prime Minister known for his role in Brexit, COVID-19, and the Ukraine war, discusses political dynamics, including an offer from David Cameron to support the Remain campaign in exchange for a top cabinet position, which he implies is a common practice in politics. (24s)
• Johnson reflects on Brexit, mentioning an unpublished letter that showed his indecision, and discusses the COVID-19 pandemic, suggesting it likely originated from a lab accident involving virus engineering. (1m2s)
• He questions whether the benefits of lockdowns outweighed the damage done, particularly to children, and expresses skepticism about the measures he implemented. (1m15s)
• Johnson is asked about his personal life, including his children and public persona, which some describe as buffoonish, and he shares insights into his childhood, including his mother's mental health struggles and his parents' divorce. (1m29s)
• The video encourages viewers to subscribe to the show, promising improvements and responsiveness to audience feedback. (2m20s)

What Do We Need To Understand About Your Early Years (2m53s)

• Boris Johnson describes his childhood as wonderful and happy, characterized by a close relationship with his siblings. (2m54s)
• A significant event in his early years was the birth of his sister Rachel when he was 18 months old, which led to a constant struggle to maintain a sense of primacy among his siblings. (3m20s)
• The sibling interaction involved healthy competition and rivalry, which played a role in his personal development. (3m43s)
• Despite the competition, the siblings often made fun of it, acknowledging the culture of trying to win while also mocking it. (4m0s)
• Before the age of 10, this competition felt like fun, and the arrival of his sister Rachel introduced a dynamic of vying for attention. (4m22s)
• His father was very busy, and the family moved house 32 times in 14 years, but both parents, despite their busy schedules, were loving and caring, investing a lot of time in their children. (4m40s)

Glue Ear Making You Deaf (5m20s)

• During the first ten years of life, there were health challenges, including glue ear, which caused some hearing difficulties. (5m20s)
• There was a history of adenoids and tonsillitis, leading to frequent visits to St. Bartholomew's Hospital and the removal of adenoids. (5m31s)
• Despite the past hearing issues, there is no current trace of deafness, leading to speculation about whether the condition was as severe as initially thought. (5m48s)
• There is a humorous reflection on whether the hearing difficulties were sometimes used as a way to avoid answering questions from the mother, Charlotte. (5m53s)

Your Mother Charlotte (6m15s)

• Boris Johnson was the oldest of four children, and his mother, Charlotte, played a significant role in his life. He dedicated a book in her memory. (6m17s)
• Charlotte was an artist who painted her children and other subjects. (6m30s)
• A pivotal moment in Boris's upbringing was when Charlotte suffered from obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and was hospitalized for eight months when Boris was around ten years old. (6m41s)
• During Charlotte's absence, Boris and his siblings developed a strong group solidarity to cope with the challenging time. (7m30s)
• Charlotte felt guilty for not being present during her hospitalization, but Boris believed she did an amazing job as a mother. (7m55s)
• Charlotte's OCD manifested in behaviors such as compulsive hand washing, but she eventually overcame these symptoms. (8m13s)

Why Was Your Mother Sent To A Psychiatric Ward (8m55s)

• The mother was sent to a psychiatric facility, and it is suggested that she believed she could benefit from therapy, which was a decision made with the father. However, the exact reason for her admission is not clearly known. (8m57s)
• During the mother's time in the facility, the father and a series of au pair girls and nannies took care of the children. The speaker emphasizes that the mother was not absent for long periods and remained a presence in their lives. (9m32s)
• The mother mentioned in an interview that the speaker developed certain mechanisms to cope with the pain of her absence and the parents' divorce when the speaker was 14. This period was challenging, but both parents remained remarkable and supportive. (10m4s)
• The speaker reflects on the experience, acknowledging that as a child, they did not fully understand the situation, but in hindsight, they recognize the development of self-reliance and self-defense mechanisms. The experience also brought the siblings closer together. (11m16s)

Why Did Your Mother Say You Were "Self Defending" (11m46s)

• The discussion explores how self-defense mechanisms manifest in behavior, particularly in response to emotional pain. (11m47s)
• It is suggested that one way to cope with emotional pain, such as the impact of parents splitting up, is to immerse oneself in work, which can serve as a form of therapy and distraction. (12m16s)
• Emotional pain often affects self-esteem, and children may mistakenly feel that their parents' divorce is a reflection of their own failure or something wrong with them. (12m29s)
• To protect against these feelings, building self-esteem through academic work or other forms of competition can be beneficial. (13m0s)
• Engaging in work is highlighted as a positive way to relieve or distract from emotional distress, depending on one's psychological perspective. (13m24s)

Why Did Your Parents Divorce? (13m41s)

• The speaker's mother decided to pursue a new life and found someone else, which led to the divorce. (13m43s)
• Despite the divorce, both parents maintained a strong affection for each other, which was evident to their children. (14m10s)
• The children perceived that there was still a residue of love and affection between their parents, even though it was practically impossible for them to continue their marriage. (14m45s)
• Both parents eventually found happiness with other partners. (15m5s)

Was There Physical Violence In The Household? (15m10s)

• Allegations of physical violence in the household during childhood have been made by one of Boris Johnson's biographers. (15m10s)
• Boris Johnson states that he has no direct knowledge of the alleged incidents and chooses not to discuss them further to avoid disrespecting his mother's memory or causing pain or embarrassment to his father. (15m35s)
• He emphasizes that as a child, he had no direct knowledge of any such events. (15m51s)

What Did Your Parents Teach You About Marriage And Love (15m57s)

• The parents met at University and clearly loved each other, which made their eventual split-up upsetting for their children (16m7s).
• The day the parents told their children about the split was remembered, and it happened in Somerset, where the father gathered the children by the gate towards the engine shed to share the news (16m27s).
• The exact words spoken by the father were not remembered, but the child's reaction was one of being cross and questioning why they were born if the parents were going to split up (16m46s).
• Children often take the blame for their parents' split and think there must be a fault or mistake in themselves, but it's essential to reassure them that this isn't true (17m21s).
• To cope with the situation, the child focused on work as a way to boost their self-esteem and get back up again (17m52s).
• Although the child doesn't personally remember the exact details of the conversation, they recall the emotions and feelings associated with that moment (18m14s).
• Despite the split, the parents remained incredibly kind to each other, which is a positive aspect of the situation (18m26s).

Is Your Public Persona A Marketing Strategy? (18m32s)

• Boris Johnson's public persona, which first gained attention on the TV show "Have I Got News for You," is described as comedic and atypical for a politician. This persona has led to a sense of corporate guilt at the BBC for unleashing it. (18m44s)
• There is a discussion about the origins of Johnson's comedic behavior, with references to his sister's comments and a statement by comedian Jimmy Carr about comedians often trying to cheer up or win favor from a parent. (19m51s)
• Johnson mentions his approach in politics and writing, aiming to engage people by making serious arguments more readable and entertaining, akin to "sugaring the pill." He uses humor and storytelling to make complex topics more accessible. (20m20s)
• Johnson reflects on the achievements during his political career, such as gaining independence for the country, and suggests that his book serves as a useful guide to the last 15 years in politics. (21m17s)
• There is a consideration of whether Johnson's persona is a carefully constructed marketing strategy, with references to someone who knows him describing him as a bit of a character. (21m52s)
• The individual describes having a fulfilling personal life, engaging in activities such as painting, reading, writing, and spending time with family, which brings them happiness. (22m4s)
• There is a discussion about the individual's energetic persona and whether it is a calculated strategy, particularly in the context of being an effective election winner. (22m36s)
• The individual reflects on their upbringing, noting that their family valued being entertaining and amusing each other, which may have influenced their public persona. (23m15s)
• The individual denies living in a calculated persona, as suggested by Jeremy Corbyn, and expresses a wish that it were true in some ways. (24m33s)
• The conversation touches on the individual's comedic public image, referencing videos of them engaging in humorous activities, such as tackling a child in Japan. (24m46s)

The Imbalance Of The UK's Class System (25m4s)

• Approximately 20 of the 57 individuals who have served as Prime Minister in the UK went to Eton, which is roughly 35% of the UK Prime Ministers, indicating a significant imbalance in the country's class system (25m14s).
• This imbalance suggests that there may be an unfair advantage or bias in the system, with one school contributing a disproportionate number of powerful individuals (25m30s).
• The theme of "leveling up" is discussed, highlighting the need to address the imbalance and provide equal opportunities for people from all backgrounds (25m42s).
• A personal experience at Eton is shared, where it was observed that some students from famous families lacked intellectual interest, while students from diverse backgrounds showed incredible talent and potential (26m12s).
• The fundamental problem is identified as the uneven distribution of opportunity, despite ambition, energy, genius, and talent being evenly distributed throughout the UK population (26m50s).
• The UK is considered to have more potential than any other major European economy, but its imbalance holds it back (27m3s).
• The UK's imbalance is unique compared to other countries, including France, Germany, Italy, Holland, and the United States (27m22s).
• As Mayor of London, a major project was undertaken to lift people out of a cycle of disadvantage and change the culture of achievement (27m41s).
• The project was successful in changing people's aspirations and the culture of achievement in London, demonstrating that it is possible to make a positive impact (28m15s).
• It is believed that this approach is needed across the whole of the UK, and that politicians have a role to play in addressing the imbalance and providing equal opportunities (28m34s).

Has The Conservative Government Done Enough To Level The UK? (28m53s)

• The UK government has not been successful enough in leveling up the country over the past decade, although some progress has been made, such as the rollout of gigabit broadband to 70% of households in three years. (28m54s)
• Infrastructure, particularly transport infrastructure like HS2 and Northern Powerhouse Rail, is considered crucial for leveling up and equalizing opportunities across the UK. (29m34s)
• There is a significant imbalance in the UK, with many top positions in politics and society being held by individuals who start with an unfair advantage, as evidenced by the fact that 20 out of 57 UK Prime Ministers came from Eton. (30m38s)
• The UK faces a choice in addressing this imbalance: either launch a cultural assault on successful institutions or spread opportunities more widely, similar to the approach in the United States, where growth rates have outperformed those in Europe. (31m22s)
• There is a need to create a culture in the UK where people are not limited by their geography or background, as currently, many feel trapped by these factors. (32m8s)
• An undercover visit to a poorly ranked school in Liverpool revealed challenges such as teachers being overburdened and students being discouraged from aiming for top universities, highlighting the need for better educational opportunities. (32m21s)
• The school system is structured like a business, where the number of students choosing a school determines the funding it receives from the government. This funding is influenced by the school's ranking in league tables, which are based on student grades. (33m7s)
• Students are often pushed to study subjects they are not interested in to improve school rankings, which can lead to disengagement and issues such as students with ADHD struggling in the system. (33m53s)
• Teachers face challenges such as having to teach multiple classes simultaneously and personally funding classroom supplies due to insufficient school funding. (34m15s)
• The quality of education varies significantly between schools, with some students starting life at a disadvantage due to funding disparities. (34m34s)
• There is a belief that improving education is crucial for providing equal opportunities in life, and recent government efforts have focused on increasing education budgets and teacher salaries. (35m28s)
• Under the conservative administration, there have been improvements in the UK's literacy and numeracy rankings, and the Academy program has been expanded. (35m55s)
• During the discussed period, schools in the country showed significant improvement, and there was a desire to further enhance education by providing skills to both school children and those who left school at 16, to ensure they could compete and attract business investment. (36m31s)
• The goal was to create a positive feedback loop where improved schools would attract parents, leading to better reputations and further improvements, similar to the transformation seen in London schools. (37m33s)
• Improving education quality was seen as a key strategy for leveling up, with a focus on curriculum, standards, and quality, which was a priority for the conservatives. (38m4s)
• Proper funding for schools is crucial, but the impact of great teachers should not be underestimated, as they can significantly influence student achievement. (38m21s)
• There is concern about the current situation with Ofsted, as while some may dislike one-word gradings, parents need to know if a school will deliver quality education. (38m44s)

Boris' Career Rundown (38m58s)

• After university, Boris Johnson briefly worked as a management consultant, a position he held for only a week. (38m59s)
• He then transitioned to a career in journalism, which he pursued for several years. (39m5s)
• Johnson appeared on the television show "Have I Got News for You," which he recalls as a great show, though he notes it is slightly fading from memory. (39m9s)
• He later became the editor of a publication and served as a Member of Parliament (MP) in the House of Commons. (39m18s)
• Eventually, Boris Johnson was elected as the Mayor of London. (39m23s)

Did You Expect To Win The London Mayorship? (39m28s)

• The individual did not initially have a clear expectation of winning the London mayoral race, despite having some admiration for Ken Livingstone's past work, particularly on environmental issues and air quality. (39m30s)
• Over time, it became apparent that after eight years, there was a sense of fatigue with Livingstone's leadership, which may have contributed to the belief that there was a good chance of winning the election. (39m52s)
• Although not initially favored by bookmakers, the individual believed there was a reasonable chance of success and emphasized the importance of making strong arguments during the campaign. (40m22s)
• A significant focus of the campaign was addressing crime, particularly the issue of teenage murders, knife crime, and gang crime, which was a major concern and a personal worry. (40m43s)
• The campaign involved collaboration with key figures such as Deputy Mayor Kit Malthouse, Commissioner Paul Stephenson, and Bernard Hogan-Howe, aiming to tackle these crime issues effectively. (41m3s)
• The effort to reduce crime was seen as a successful example of democracy in action, with a pledge to address the issue leading to a 50% reduction in murders in London during the individual's tenure. (41m46s)

You Had 3 Significant Country Events, Do You Wish It Was Different? (41m53s)

• In 2016, at the age of 52, Boris Johnson became co-leader alongside Michael Gove of the campaign to take Britain out of the EU. (41m53s)
• During his tenure as Prime Minister of the UK, Boris Johnson faced three significant events: Brexit, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the Ukraine war. (42m0s)
• Reflecting on these challenges, it is noted that while dealing with such generational crises is part of the role of a Prime Minister, not all leaders face multiple major issues simultaneously. (42m21s)
• Boris Johnson expressed pride in the accomplishments achieved during his time in office, particularly highlighting the importance of national independence gained through Brexit. (43m2s)
• He emphasized that this independence allowed the UK to respond more effectively to the pandemic, notably enabling the country to vaccinate its population faster than any other European nation. (43m16s)

Did You Think You Were Going To Win The Brexit Vote? (43m34s)

• There was a difference in perception about the likelihood of winning the Brexit vote depending on location; outside London, there was a sense that people would vote to leave, while inside London, it felt different. (43m34s)
• The polls generally favored the remain side, but there was a belief that leave voters were more motivated, which led to hope that they would turn out in large numbers. (44m2s)
• The leave vote ultimately received 17.4 million votes, the largest number for any proposition in UK history, although there were times and places, such as at St Andrews University in Scotland, where it seemed unlikely that leave would win. (44m26s)
• There was a personal conflict about whether to support leave or remain, with considerations about Britain's duty to Europe and the importance of being good partners weighing against the decision to leave. (44m55s)
• An unpublished letter was mentioned, which related to the decision about whether to leave or stay within the EU. (45m37s)

Your Secret Pro-Remain Letter (45m46s)

• An unpublished article discusses the potential benefits of the UK remaining in the EU, highlighting the opportunities for future generations to live, work, and form relationships in Europe, as well as the economic advantages of accessing the EU market. (45m46s)
• Concerns are raised about the potential negative consequences of leaving the EU, such as the risk of Scotland seeking independence and geopolitical issues involving Russia. (46m5s)
• The article argues that the EU membership fee is a small price to pay for the benefits of being part of a large market and suggests a policy of being pro-Europe and pro-global engagement. (46m30s)
• The decision-making process regarding the EU referendum is described as complex and nuanced, with the author initially torn between the arguments for and against leaving the EU. (46m54s)
• The author ultimately decided to support leaving the EU, believing it was a unique opportunity to regain national democratic independence and avoid becoming part of a more integrated European political structure. (47m52s)
• The campaign for leaving the EU lacked nuance, contrasting with the detailed considerations in the author's writings, which included drafting a counterargument to explore both sides. (48m18s)
• The author emphasizes the importance of democratic accountability, expressing concern that the EU's structure does not allow citizens to effectively hold leaders accountable or remove them from office. (48m50s)
• A football analogy is used to illustrate the complexity of decision-making, comparing the decision to leave the EU to the decision of whether to replace a struggling football manager, highlighting the lack of a clear plan for what would follow after leaving the EU. (49m16s)

You Had No Plan After Brexit (49m50s)

• The discussion highlights the need for taking back control, comparing the economic growth rates of the EU and the United States, and suggesting that the EU model has not been economically successful due to low innovation and poor growth rates. (49m50s)
• It is noted that the United States would never trade away national sovereignty, unlike the EU, which continuously evolves its body of law that the British Parliament cannot change. (51m10s)
• The decision for the UK to leave the EU was difficult, but it was driven by the desire for legislative freedom. (51m49s)
• The pandemic was described as a challenging period, but the UK was able to vaccinate its population faster than any other European country due to its regulatory freedom post-Brexit. (52m5s)
• The analogy of a parachute is used to explain the concept of freedom, suggesting that leaving the EU allowed the UK to equip itself with a "parachute" faster, enabling a quicker and safer response to challenges. (52m50s)
• By March 2021, 45% of the adult population in the UK had been vaccinated, with nearly 100% of those over 80 receiving the vaccine, which was crucial during a time when up to a thousand people were dying daily. (53m45s)
• There is a discussion about the connection between Brexit and its real-world implications, particularly regarding the lack of a concrete plan for leaving the EU following the referendum. (54m35s)
• It is highlighted that those who campaigned for Brexit, including Boris Johnson and Michael Gove, did not anticipate winning or forming the next government, and thus had no plans for governance or negotiations post-referendum. (55m1s)
• The responsibility for announcing a withdrawal plan and beginning negotiations was seen as the government's duty, not the campaigners', leading to frustration over being blamed for the chaotic aftermath. (55m31s)
• The text draws parallels with European leaders who have faced referendums that went against them but did not resign, suggesting that the expectation for the Brexit campaigners to have a government plan was misplaced. (56m20s)
• There is a hypothetical scenario presented where if the Leave campaign had aimed to form the next government, it would have been perceived as a move to advance political careers rather than focusing on the issue of leaving or remaining in the EU. (56m51s)
• There was an expectation that the government would present a white paper outlining options and a plan for the country post-Brexit, but it was perceived that no good options were available, and key figures like David Cameron advised against leaving the EU. (57m24s)
• Despite warnings from David Cameron, there was a belief that Boris Johnson had a plan for post-Brexit survival, but it was later revealed that he did not have a concrete plan, assuming Cameron would intervene. (58m20s)
• After David Cameron's departure from the political scene, there was a chaotic period where new leadership had to figure out the next steps for the country. (58m46s)
• Boris Johnson struggled with the decision to support Brexit, as David Cameron offered him a top cabinet position if he supported remaining in the EU. Johnson had previously written about the EU's democratic issues and saw Brexit as an opportunity to address them. (59m19s)
• David Cameron emphasized that the decision was about the future of the country, not just political articles, and expressed strong opposition to Johnson supporting Brexit. (59m54s)

Did David Cameron React Badly When You Said You Were Going To Leave? (1h0m9s)

• A promise was made to provide support indefinitely, which was considered a significant commitment. (1h0m10s)
• After returning home, a family discussion took place, during which one of the children suggested that there was no choice but to support the Leave campaign. (1h0m21s)
• The offer of a top government position, such as Health Secretary or Defense Secretary, was perceived as potentially corrupt, as it seemed contingent on following a particular opinion. (1h0m56s)
• It was unclear what specific job was being offered, but it was implied to be one of the top five government positions. (1h1m21s)
• The practice of offering positions in exchange for support was criticized as a mistake, as it could lead to unfulfilled promises due to the limited number of available positions. (1h1m44s)

How Does Someone Get A High-Level Job Without Having Done It Before? (1h2m1s)

• The process of appointing individuals to high-level government positions without prior experience in the relevant field is questioned, with examples such as Matt Hancock becoming Health Secretary and Margaret Thatcher becoming Secretary for Education. (1h2m2s)
• There is a concern that it is challenging to attract skilled administrative professionals to politics, as many successful business people struggle to transition into political roles. (1h2m43s)
• The selection process for top government jobs is perceived to be influenced by connections and affiliations, such as attending prestigious schools like Eton, rather than purely on merit. (1h3m18s)
• There is a suggestion that the political environment may not be conducive to the success of business-minded individuals, and the system may favor those already inclined to pursue political careers. (1h3m49s)

If You're In Politics, You Need To Be Okay With Public Attacks (1h4m7s)

• Social media has become increasingly virulent, creating an oppressive environment for politicians and journalists. (1h4m20s)
• Journalists face significant abuse online if they are perceived as biased or lenient towards certain individuals. (1h4m42s)
• A journalist who was set to interview for a book has received appalling online criticism, highlighting the harsh scrutiny faced by media professionals. (1h5m4s)
• Members of Parliament (MPs) also experience severe online attacks, leading them to consider whether enduring such negativity is worth it compared to pursuing other careers. (1h5m16s)

Is Politics All About Bringing Your Friends Up With You? (1h5m38s)

• The discussion suggests that politics has historically been factional and often involves individuals helping their friends, likened to a "boys club." (1h5m44s)
• It is acknowledged that while this may be a sad reality, the individuals who ultimately succeed in politics are those who accomplish tasks that people desire. (1h6m1s)
• Politics is described as a magnet for determined individuals who are willing to endure challenges to achieve their goals. (1h6m18s)
• Success in politics requires a thick skin, and those who thrive are the ones who can effectively drive initiatives forward and deliver results. (1h6m50s)

Do You Regret Brexit? (1h7m7s)

• According to a YouGov survey, 62% of British people view Brexit as more of a failure, while 9% see it as a success. Additionally, 46% of British people believe there should be a second referendum in 10 years, compared to 36% who think there should not be one. (1h7m7s)
• The UK's Real Gross Added Value (GVA) indicates that the UK economy is approximately £140 billion smaller in 2023 than it would have been if the UK had remained in the EU's single market. By 2035, £300 billion is expected to be wiped off the UK's economy. (1h7m28s)
• A report from the Centre for European Reform in 2023 estimates that the UK GDP was 5.5% smaller by mid-2023 compared to a scenario where the UK had remained in the EU, equating to an economic loss of about £40 billion annually. (1h7m50s)
• About 33% of small businesses reported that Brexit has made it harder to trade with the EU due to increased paperwork. The London School of Economics noted that Brexit added 6% to food prices between 2020 and 2023. (1h8m6s)
• Despite these statistics, it is argued that the UK has outgrown Germany, France, and Italy since 2016, and that Brexit allowed the UK to exit lockdown earlier than other countries, leading to the fastest economic rebound of any G7 country. (1h8m26s)
• The OECD states that the UK is the only major rich economy that remains smaller and poorer than before the pandemic, with Brexit potentially being a factor. The Office for Budget Responsibility believes the UK will ultimately be 4% worse off due to Brexit. (1h9m39s)
• It is suggested that in business, everything is a trade-off, and it is important to identify both the benefits and costs of Brexit. (1h10m1s)

What Have The Downsides Of Brexit Been? (1h10m21s)

• There is a belief that the current bureaucratic management by European counterparts is unnecessarily complex, but it is expected to improve over time. (1h10m22s)
• The freedom to manage one's own country and trade is seen as an advantage, despite some businesses facing increased paperwork, which is believed to be solvable through technological solutions. (1h11m2s)
• Predictions made before the Brexit referendum, such as increased unemployment and the need for an emergency tax budget, did not materialize, as unemployment was at a 50-year low with more people in paid employment. (1h11m42s)
• There is an expectation of economic improvement in the long term due to Brexit, although there may be short-term economic challenges. (1h12m24s)
• It is considered a mistake to remain aligned with the EU, as it would result in being rule-takers, and the emphasis is on pursuing freedom. (1h12m51s)

When Was The First Time You Heard About This Virus? (1h14m13s)

• The first time the prime minister of the United Kingdom heard about the virus that had come in from China was when the health secretary expressed concerns about the "Chinese virus" while walking through the lobby of the House of Commons (1h14m56s).
• The health secretary at the time was Hancock, and the prime minister believes Hancock did a very good job handling the situation, having the right mixture of energy and realism (1h15m11s).
• At the time, the government did not know about the disease's lethality, contagiousness, or exact transmission method, and there was a lot of uncertainty (1h15m40s).
• The prime minister had previously written about or dealt with new zoonotic diseases, such as SARS and Ebola, and felt that they tended to sort themselves out, and that attempts to stop them by politicians could be worse than the cause (1h16m0s).
• The prime minister had covered various health scares in the past, including the salmonella and eggs panic, the BSE panic, and the bird flu threat, and had seen SARS and Ebola come and go without major impact (1h17m4s).
• The prime minister's past experiences led them to believe that the COVID-19 pandemic might follow a similar pattern, with initial anxiety and preparations, but ultimately minimal impact (1h17m56s).
• The prime minister did not know the severity of the COVID-19 pandemic at the time and was trying to provide context for their state of mind and that of others when they first heard about the virus (1h18m29s).

When Did You Call China To Address Covid (1h18m41s)

• In February 2020, a call was made to Xi Jinping, the leader of China, regarding the COVID-19 situation. (1h18m41s)
• During this period, supplies were being sent to China to assist with their efforts to control the virus. (1h18m55s)
• The conversation included congratulations on China's efforts to control the disease, but there was also concern expressed about the wet markets, as it was believed at the time that the virus originated there. (1h19m15s)
• The response from Xi Jinping is not clearly remembered, but it is noted that he likely did not want to imply any fault on China's part. (1h19m34s)
• There is now a belief that the virus almost certainly resulted from a lab accident or something that went wrong in a lab. (1h19m54s)

The Virus Was Actually Created In A Lab (1h20m3s)

• The discussion addresses the theory that the virus originated from a lab in Wuhan, which was initially considered a conspiracy but is now widely accepted as a probable explanation. (1h20m3s)
• There is uncertainty about why scientists were experimenting with the virus in the lab, with the suggestion that it was part of scientific efforts to push the boundaries of human knowledge. (1h20m14s)
• It is speculated that the virus was not intended as a weapon but was the result of a terrible accident, possibly escaping from the lab during experiments involving gain-of-function research. (1h20m34s)
• The belief is that the virus was being engineered and manipulated, and something went wrong during this process. (1h20m44s)

Call Trump To Talk About Covid (1h21m5s)

• A conversation took place about speaking to Donald Trump regarding COVID-19, and the person did end up talking to him about it (1h21m6s).
• Trump held a firm view that China had a case to answer, but so did many other people, in relation to the COVID-19 pandemic (1h21m13s).
• The World Health Organization's response to the pandemic was seen as seemingly hesitant, likely due to their desire to maintain a favorable relationship with Beijing (1h21m24s).
• Many scientists were anxious about criticizing the Chinese, as China is heavily involved in supporting and sponsoring academic research (1h21m37s).
• This led to a sense of hesitancy among scientists when discussing lockdowns and criticizing the Chinese, giving the impression that they were trying not to offend China too much (1h21m52s).

Lockdowns (1h21m57s)

• Around March 8, there was growing awareness of the seriousness of the COVID-19 situation, particularly influenced by the scenes from Italian hospitals, which highlighted the severity of the pandemic. (1h21m59s)
• The Italian healthcare system, known for its excellence, was struggling, which raised concerns about the potential impact on other countries with similar demographics, such as the UK. (1h22m32s)
• From early March until March 23, there was a series of escalating measures in the UK to encourage people to take precautions against the virus. (1h23m22s)
• There was indecision in the UK government due to conflicting information from various sources, leading to a slower response compared to other European countries in implementing lockdown measures. (1h23m43s)
• The UK was slower to close schools, shops, and events compared to other European nations, despite being aware of the situation in Italy. (1h24m0s)
• The UK government felt it could not implement novel and strict measures without scientific advice, which contributed to the delay in decisive action. (1h24m44s)
• The Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE) was responsible for guiding the UK government's response, emphasizing a science-led approach. (1h25m27s)
• A decision was made to follow the advice of Sage, the scientific advisory group, during the pandemic, particularly regarding the timing of school closures and lockdowns. (1h25m40s)
• There was concern that implementing lockdowns too early could lead to public impatience and the need for repeated lockdowns, as well as a potential resurgence of the virus once measures were lifted. (1h26m0s)
• The scientific advice at the time was not particularly clear, as there were differing opinions among scientists on various issues. (1h26m43s)
• Matt Hancock suggested that earlier lockdowns could have saved 30,000 lives, but there is uncertainty about this claim. (1h26m52s)
• Locking down earlier would have required anticipating scientific advice, which was not something the scientists were recommending at that time. (1h27m25s)
• The idea of locking down the entire UK population was not yet being recommended by scientists. (1h27m39s)

Were The Lockdowns Even Worth It (1h27m46s)

• There is a discussion about the effectiveness of lockdowns, questioning whether they truly worked in controlling the spread of the disease. (1h27m46s)
• It is acknowledged that lockdowns likely played a role in reducing the spread and flattening the curve of the disease. (1h27m54s)
• There is uncertainty about the extent to which the reduction in disease spread was due to lockdowns versus natural progression. (1h28m19s)
• The discussion raises the question of whether the benefits of lockdowns outweighed the severe negative impacts on children's education and life chances. (1h28m50s)
• Despite acknowledging differing opinions, there is a belief that the right decision was made regarding implementing lockdowns, with hope that a COVID inquiry will affirm this decision. (1h29m4s)

The Tiering System Was Bonkers (1h29m20s)

• The tiering system implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic was described as "bonkers," and there was surprise that people followed these rules, especially since they were put in place by the same authority expressing this view. (1h29m30s)
• During the summer of 2020, after the first lockdown, the situation became more challenging in the autumn, with some areas like Leicester and the West Midlands experiencing higher transmission rates than others, such as Cornwall. (1h29m57s)
• The principle behind the tiering system was considered good, as it aimed to address varying transmission rates across different regions. However, it was difficult to establish clear boundaries, leading to confusion and dissatisfaction among the public. (1h30m45s)

Was There A Mental Toll On You? (1h31m14s)

• Leading the country during the pandemic was mentally challenging due to the daily reports of people dying and getting sick, and the need to implement measures to stop the transmission of the disease, such as shutting down the country. (1h31m15s)
• The mental toll was significant, but the prospect of a vaccination by the end of 2020 greatly improved the mood, providing a positive project to focus on. (1h31m55s)
• The hardest moments were likely when dealing with tragic news and the escalating pandemic, but the exact nature of these moments is not specified. (1h32m5s)
• Having a bad bout of COVID-19 was a difficult experience, but the hardest day was likely having to go back into lockdown at the end of 2020, as there were hopes that other measures would work. (1h32m37s)
• The decision to go back into lockdown was made due to the risk of not taking action, despite some people believing that other measures could have worked. (1h32m57s)

The Impact Of The Death Of Your Mother (1h32m59s)

• The text discusses the public's compliance with complex rules during the pandemic, comparing it to religious rituals followed in hope of salvation due to slow scientific progress. (1h32m59s)
• Charlotte, the mother of the speaker, passed away on September 13, 2021, during the pandemic, which was a challenging time due to ongoing social and political issues. (1h33m22s)
• The speaker reflects on the common human experience of losing loved ones during the pandemic and acknowledges the widespread suffering across the country. (1h34m46s)
• The speaker recalls being informed of Charlotte's passing while driving to London, noting that her death was not medically unexpected due to her long-term battle with Parkinson's and related complications. (1h35m17s)
• The speaker confirms having grieved Charlotte's passing and expresses ongoing feelings of missing her, while also managing significant responsibilities. (1h36m1s)

Party Gate (1h36m58s)

• The discussion addresses the public outrage over the "partygate" scandal, where government officials were accused of holding gatherings during COVID-19 restrictions, which prevented many from seeing their loved ones. (1h37m0s)
• Boris Johnson acknowledges the anger people felt and admits to mishandling the situation, mentioning that he commissioned Sue Gray to investigate the matter, believing her to be politically impartial. (1h38m3s)
• There were allegations of 17 parties during the "partygate" timeframe, and a leaked photo showed Boris Johnson with cheese and wine at 10 Downing Street, which contributed to public discontent. (1h38m24s)
• Boris Johnson clarifies that he was fined for standing at his desk in the cabinet room between meetings, not for having a party or a glass of wine, and denies having a cake at the event. (1h39m0s)
• The Metropolitan Police investigated the events and found no offense in the photo showing people sitting outside, as it was considered safer during the pandemic. (1h39m50s)
• On May 15, 2020, Boris Johnson was photographed with his wife and staff in the garden of Number 10, while COVID-19 restrictions were in place, and on May 20, 2020, he attended a "bring your own booze" party. (1h40m3s)
• Boris Johnson discussed the public perception that he and others were partying and drinking during the COVID-19 pandemic, which he claims was not the case. He emphasized the importance of leading by example, especially in government settings. (1h40m48s)
• Johnson acknowledged that maintaining perfect social distancing was challenging in the office environment at Number 10, where people were working around the clock. He suggested that he should have communicated more clearly to his staff the importance of not only following the rules but also being seen to follow them. (1h41m36s)
• He expressed regret that photos of people appearing to have a good time, such as raising glasses, were taken, as they could be perceived as rule-breaking. Johnson stated that he should have advised his team to avoid even the appearance of breaking the rules. (1h42m40s)
• Johnson mentioned that during the nearly two years of intense work at Number 10, there were moments when colleagues would raise a glass to each other, which he did not see as problematic unless such gatherings were banned entirely. (1h43m16s)
• He argued against banning alcohol at Number 10, comparing it to a hypothetical situation during World War II, and suggested that gatherings with alcohol, music, and cake should have been banned to avoid any perception of impropriety. However, he denied being present at any events with music or dancing. (1h43m49s)
• A general apology was issued, which led to the perception that all allegations were true, including those of vomiting and fist fights, which were later found to be false. (1h44m9s)
• The initial apology was described as "pathetic and groveling," making the situation appear more culpable than it was. (1h45m10s)
• It was suggested that a universal apology seemed to validate all subsequent allegations, even those that were not true. (1h45m22s)
• The staff at Number 10 were working extremely hard to manage difficult tasks, and their successful efforts were commendable. (1h45m57s)
• In retrospect, more should have been done to protect against party-type allegations, including reminding staff of the importance of obeying and being seen to obey the rules. (1h46m20s)
• The blanket apology appeared to validate unfair criticisms of the staff, and it would have been better to wait for the truth to be established before apologizing. (1h46m51s)
• The officials working on the government's response to COVID-19 did an outstanding job, and their efforts should be recognized. (1h47m22s)

How Many Children Do You Have? (1h47m41s)

• A question was raised about the number of children Boris Johnson has, which is a topic of public interest and debate. (1h47m42s)
• Boris Johnson confirmed that he has eight children, stating that this information is a matter of public record. (1h47m59s)

Charlotte Owen (1h48m5s)

• A search for Charlotte Owen was mentioned, and it was asked if there was a relation to her, to which the answer was no (1h48m5s).
• It was also clarified that Charlotte Owen was not a former lover (1h48m9s).
• The topic of Charlotte Owen was brought up as friends had asked about her, and she is mentioned in the book (1h48m13s).

What Happens Next For Boris Johnson (1h48m15s)

• Boris Johnson is considering staying out of politics and living a life of "blameless rustic obscurity" in the countryside, where he enjoys activities such as painting and other hobbies (1h48m23s).
• Johnson believes he should only do things if he genuinely thinks he can be useful, and at the moment, he is focusing on his personal life (1h48m34s).
• As a former British Prime Minister, Johnson is constitutionally obliged to be friendly with whoever is in power in the United States for the sake of international relations (1h48m56s).
• Johnson thinks that people should be aware of the anti-Trump prejudice regarding his handling of foreign policy and acknowledges that Trump took tough decisions and projected American strength and purpose during his presidency (1h49m24s).
• Johnson does not explicitly state whether Trump or Biden would be better for stopping wars, but suggests that Trump's approach to foreign policy has been unfairly criticized (1h49m12s).
• Johnson has written a book titled "Unleashed," which provides more insight into his thoughts on politics and foreign policy (1h48m32s).

Last Guest Question (1h49m52s)

• Success often comes at a price, including the loss of relationships, but it is suggested that ruptures in relationships are not necessarily final. A specific rupture with Michael Gove in 2016 is mentioned, but it was later resolved by bringing him back into the cabinet. (1h49m54s)
• A book titled "Boris Johnson Unleashed" is discussed, noted for its engaging writing style and detailed coverage of key issues from the past several years, spanning over 771 pages. (1h51m20s)
• The book is linked for those interested in the subject matter discussed, and it includes insights into Boris Johnson's life and political events. (1h51m59s)
• A tradition is mentioned where guests leave a question in the "Diary of a CEO," which has been turned into conversation cards available for purchase. These cards include questions from various guests and a QR code to watch the person who answered the question. (1h52m22s)