Russell Brand Raises Concerns over Informal Hearings in Public Inquiry Comedian and activist Russell Brand has expressed concern over the use of informal hearings in the UK public inquiry into the government’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. Brand alleges that the informal hearings, which are not subject to the same level of scrutiny as formal hearings, have not adequately addressed his concerns about the government’s response to the crisis. In a letter to the inquiry chair, Rosemary Hallett, Brand outlined the following issues: * Witnesses giving contradictory or evasive evidence without consequences * The exclusion of key witnesses who could provide valuable insight * The lack of opportunity for cross-examination and independent scrutiny Brand argues that the informal hearings undermine the inquiry’s credibility and prevent a full understanding of the failures that led to the high number of deaths in the UK. “I believe that this inquiry is not fit for purpose if it cannot properly investigate the government’s actions during the pandemic,” Brand wrote. “The informal hearings are a smokescreen that allows those responsible to evade accountability.” The Inquiry has defended the use of informal hearings, arguing that they allow for a wider range of voices to be heard and provide a more flexible and efficient way to gather evidence. However, Brand and other critics maintain that the lack of formal rules and procedures raises concerns about the quality and reliability of the evidence presented. The ongoing debate highlights the importance of transparency and accountability in public inquiries, particularly when examining complex and controversial issues. The outcome of the inquiry will likely have significant implications for the government’s future policies and the handling of future public health crises.Russell Brand’s Informal Concerns During ‘Big Brother’ InvestigatedRussell Brand’s Informal Concerns During ‘Big Brother’ Investigated An investigation has revealed that informal concerns raised about Russell Brand’s behavior while presenting “Big Brother” spin-off shows were “not escalated or adequately addressed.” The comedian and actor hosted the Channel 4 shows from 2004 to 2008, including “Big Brother’s Big Mouth” and “Big Brother’s Celebrity Hijack.” The investigation, conducted by production company Banijay UK, found that managers were alerted to allegations that Brand had asked staff to obtain phone numbers of audience members and that his behavior made female team members feel uncomfortable or intimidated. However, no formal complaints were filed, and the concerns did not escalate, according to Banijay. “We are very sorry to anyone who has been affected by this behavior and has felt unable to speak or that their voice has not been heard properly,” said Banijay in a statement. These allegations are separate from those made in a Channel 4 “Dispatches” investigation in September 2023, where Brand was accused of rape, assault, and emotional abuse. He strongly denied the allegations, stating that his relationships have always been consensual. The Sunday Times report quoted a former television investigator as saying that Brand’s sexual pursuit of audience members was reported to production managers, but their concerns were dismissed. A talent manager allegedly replied, “That’s the thing about talent. Boys will be boys. It’s no big deal.” Banijay, which acquired “Big Brother” producer Endemol Shine in 2020, is one of several broadcasters that have investigated complaints about Brand’s behavior during his employment. According to the Banijay inquiry, Brand was rumored to have had sexual relations with members of the public and staff, which were “understood to be consensual.” However, “no particular safeguards were put in place to protect Brand, those who worked with him, or those who otherwise came into contact with him.” Banijay UK chief executive Patrick Holland acknowledged that industry protocols and behavioral expectations have improved in recent years and continue to be reviewed. A Channel 4 spokesperson thanked Banijay for the investigation and noted that they had taken note of the findings.Russell Brand has expressed concerns over the government’s handling of the informal economy, arguing that it has not adequately addressed the needs of those working in this sector. Speaking at a recent event, Brand highlighted the challenges faced by informal workers, who often lack access to basic protections and benefits. He called on the government to do more to support these individuals and to ensure that they have a fair chance to succeed. “The informal economy is a vital part of our society,” Brand said. “It provides employment for millions of people and contributes billions of pounds to the UK economy. However, too many informal workers are living in poverty and without access to basic rights.” Brand’s comments come as the government prepares to introduce a new National Living Wage, which will set a minimum hourly rate for workers aged 25 and over. However, the new wage will not apply to informal workers, who are typically paid less than the minimum wage. Brand argued that the government needs to do more than just introduce a new minimum wage. He called for a comprehensive package of measures to support informal workers, including access to training and education, as well as improved access to healthcare and other benefits. “The informal economy is not going to disappear,” Brand said. “We need to find ways to make it work for everyone.”