Boris and Nicola detest each other. True by both. He loathes nationalism. She thinks the former PM is a “clown”.

But they have one thing in common. Both would dearly like to be cleared by the Covid inquiries.

At this distance, I think it likely that a balanced judgement will emerge. Qualified criticism.

I tend to adhere to the view offered by the former Scottish Health Secretary, Jeane Freeman, to the UK inquiry in Edinburgh.

Questioned closely about the transfer of elderly people from hospitals to care homes, she noted quietly and solemnly that there were no risk-free choices.

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Yes, it is truly appalling that some of those transferred subsequently succumbed to Covid in a setting which was intended to nurture them.

But Ms Freeman noted there were counter-balancing jeopardies from keeping vulnerable people in hospital. Also, at the time, there was a genuine fear that the entire NHS would be overcome.

I know, I know, that glib summation will not placate the bereaved. Very far from it. I sympathise. They are seeking answers and I commend their collective endeavours.

The questions posed on their behalf at the UK inquiry in Edinburgh, at the close of each day’s inquisitorial interrogation, have frequently led to insight.

But, for each criticism which can be levelled at those in power, it remains at least arguable that there are balancing factors to be borne in mind.

Which is, in essence, the case being made at the two inquiries by both Scottish and UK ministers. Hence, in short, the........

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