The former prime minister becomes the first politician questioned by the official Covid-19 inquiry.

David Cameron, the former prime minister, has stated that too much time was spent preparing for a potential flu pandemic rather than adequately planning for the coronavirus crisis. Speaking at the official Covid-19 inquiry on June 19, 2023, Cameron acknowledged that the government’s focus on flu preparedness may have contributed to the initial shortcomings in responding to the pandemic.

As the first politician to be questioned in the inquiry, Cameron defended the government’s overall response but admitted that certain areas, particularly in pandemic preparedness, were not as robust as they should have been. The inquiry is examining the UK’s handling of the pandemic, including the timing of lockdowns, testing strategies, and the availability of essential resources.

The former prime minister’s testimony is expected to shed light on the decision-making processes during the early stages of the pandemic and how the government adapted to the evolving crisis.

Catherine Ashton made Lady Companion, while Chris Patten honoured as Knight Companion.

On June 19, 2023, King Charles III attended his first Order of the Garter service as monarch, marking a significant moment in his reign. The prestigious ceremony, held at Windsor Castle, saw former Labour minister Catherine Ashton appointed as a Lady Companion of the Order, while Chris Patten, the last governor of Hong Kong, was made a Knight Companion.

The Order of the Garter, established in 1348, is one of the oldest and most distinguished orders of chivalry in the United Kingdom. It recognises individuals for their exceptional service to the nation, with this year’s honorees representing both political and diplomatic contributions.

The service, steeped in tradition, included the ceremonial investitures and the presence of the royal family. It highlighted King Charles’ role in continuing the legacy of the Order, as well as his dedication to recognising significant contributions to public life.

Health officials report six survivors in critical condition after the tragic accident.

A tragic bus crash in Canada has left 15 people dead, with six of the 10 surviving seniors listed in critical condition. The crash occurred on June 16, 2023, and has shocked the local community. Emergency services rushed to the scene, and the injured were transported to nearby hospitals for treatment.

Canadian health officials confirmed the severity of the injuries, with the six seniors being closely monitored in intensive care units. The victims, who were travelling together, were all part of a group of seniors on a tour when the accident occurred.

Investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the crash, while authorities have expressed condolences to the families of the victims. The incident serves as a heartbreaking reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of road safety.

The singer shares her emotional reaction to the awkward encounter with the comedian.

Kesha has opened up about the “saddest moment” of her life, recalling an encounter with comedian Jerry Seinfeld in 2017 when he refused to hug her. The singer revealed that she was excited to meet Seinfeld, as she admired him deeply for the peace and positivity he embodies. However, when she asked for a hug, Seinfeld declined, which left her feeling heartbroken.

In a recent interview, Kesha described how much she looked up to the actor, saying that he represents “peace and love and all things good in the universe.” Despite her disappointment, she explained that she respected his personal boundaries, but the incident still stuck with her as a painful memory.

The moment has become a part of Kesha’s larger narrative of navigating her career in the public eye, where interactions with celebrities and fans can often be complex and emotionally charged.

Callum Marshall’s late equaliser ruled out after five-minute VAR check.

Northern Ireland suffered a controversial defeat to Denmark, with a last-minute equaliser from Callum Marshall ruled out following a lengthy VAR check. The match, held on June 16, 2023, ended 1-0 in Denmark’s favour, but the dramatic late goal from Marshall was disallowed after a five-minute review by the video assistant referee.

The decision sparked outrage among Northern Ireland fans and players, who believed the goal should have stood. Despite the contentious nature of the call, the referee upheld the VAR ruling, leaving Northern Ireland to rue what could have been a valuable point.

The defeat leaves Northern Ireland with much to reflect on as they continue their campaign, while Denmark celebrates a narrow but crucial victory.

Lady With A Fan, a ‘technical tour de force’, will be auctioned by Sotheby’s on June 27.

The final portrait by famed Austrian artist Gustav Klimt, Lady With A Fan (Dame Mit Facher), is set to be auctioned at Sotheby’s on June 27, 2023, and is expected to fetch up to £65 million. This remarkable piece, regarded as a “technical tour de force,” showcases Klimt’s signature style, combining ornamental details with intimate portraiture.

Lady With A Fan is one of Klimt’s later works, painted in 1917, and is considered a masterpiece of his mature period. The portrait features a young woman draped in a rich, patterned gown, holding a fan, surrounded by the intricate, gilded patterns that define much of Klimt’s work.

The auction is expected to attract significant interest from collectors and art enthusiasts, with the painting’s high value reflecting both its artistic merit and historical significance. If it reaches its estimated price, it would be one of the most expensive paintings ever sold at auction.

Families and supporters gather to demand justice for the victims of the tragic tower blaze.

Hundreds of people took part in a silent walk through the streets of London on June 14, 2023, to mark the sixth anniversary of the Grenfell Tower fire. The solemn procession saw families, survivors, and supporters gather to remember the 72 victims of the devastating blaze and demand justice for those responsible.

The event highlighted ongoing calls for accountability, as families continue to seek justice for their loved ones lost in the tragedy. Despite numerous investigations, legal battles, and public inquiries, many feel that justice has yet to be fully served.

Speakers at the event reiterated their commitment to continue the fight for justice until all those responsible for the fire and its aftermath are held accountable. The walk was a powerful reminder of the need for reform in housing, fire safety, and the treatment of working-class communities.

The anniversary also served as an emotional tribute to the lives lost and a call for lasting change to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

A refreshing and humorous take on an unlikely relationship, with McKellen and Allam delivering standout performances.

Frank and Percy, currently showing at the Theatre Royal Windsor, features an unexpected and charming romance between two older men, played by Ian McKellen and Roger Allam. The play, which centres on the unlikely friendship that blossoms into a deeper connection, has been praised for its warmth and wit.

McKellen, known for his commanding stage presence, offers a masterclass in comedic timing, with moments that take audiences by surprise, including a rather unexpected joke about deep-throating a cucumber. His partnership with Allam is one of perfect contrast — Allam’s more restrained, thoughtful approach complements McKellen’s exuberant energy, creating an engaging dynamic.

The play explores themes of love, loss, and the complexity of relationships, all wrapped in sharp humour. It’s an emotionally rich production that challenges the traditional ideas of romance while providing plenty of laughs.

For those looking for a unique and heartfelt theatrical experience, Frank and Percy delivers a refreshing take on aging, love, and the bonds that can form in unexpected circumstances.

The actor opens up about his past mistakes and the challenges of growing up in the spotlight.

Emile Hirsch, known for his roles in Into the Wild and Speed Racer, has spoken candidly about his troubled past, including the violent incident involving a female executive in 2015 that significantly impacted his career. In a recent interview, Hirsch discussed the remorse he feels for the attack, admitting that he had to learn how to genuinely apologise for his actions.

Reflecting on his time as a child star, Hirsch revealed that he was always cautious about the darker side of Hollywood, recognising early on the pressures and pitfalls of fame. Despite his early success, the actor expressed a desire for balance and a sense of wanderlust, seeking a life beyond the confines of the industry.

In addition to discussing his personal growth, Hirsch spoke about his upcoming role as a murderous fugitive, a character that he believes will challenge audiences and highlight his range as an actor. Hirsch’s openness about his past and his ongoing journey to make amends has resonated with many, showing a more vulnerable side to the actor who once seemed untouchable.

Mexico’s foreign minister steps down as Claudia Sheinbaum announces plans to join the race for the presidency.

Mexico’s Foreign Minister, Marcelo Ebrard, has resigned from his position to join the primary race for the country’s 2024 presidential election. Ebrard’s decision to enter the race marks a significant shift in Mexico’s political landscape, as he now aims to secure the nomination for the ruling party, Morena.

In a related development, Mexico City Mayor Claudia Sheinbaum, also from Morena, announced she will follow suit, stepping down from her post on Friday to run for the presidency. Both Ebrard and Sheinbaum are seen as key contenders in the upcoming election, which will take place on June 2, 2024.

The two political figures will now compete in a primary race to determine who will represent the ruling party in the election. Their decisions have intensified the race for the presidency, with the Mexican public eagerly awaiting the upcoming months of campaigning.