As Britain’s death toll from Covid-19 passes 100,000, there is one burning question: why did so many have to die? Tom Clark, Gaby Hinsliff and Philip Ball chart the persistent failures—from both the chief scientists and the politicians. Former head of the Supreme Court Brenda Hale takes on the human rights sceptics and Rana Mitter asks whether China's grip on Hong Kong means the end of the historic freedoms in the city.
Analysis of the virus initially showed similarities with other viruses from bats. But more detailed testing suggested it may have been snakes—which were sold in the Wuhan market the outbreak is thought to have started in
The big practical challenge involves developing responses at national and international level so that we can co-ordinate and act in the face of a global pandemic
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