The UK’s public inquiry into the COVID-19 pandemic heard testimony from former chief scientific advisor Patrick Vallance on Monday, who claimed that Boris Johnson struggled to understand much of the science during his time as Prime Minister. Vallance stated that he and others encountered repeated difficulties in getting Johnson to comprehend the science, but also noted that leaders in many countries faced similar problems in understanding scientific evidence and advice. Johnson stepped down as Prime Minister in September 2022 following revelations of rule-breaking parties at his Downing Street residence during the pandemic and is scheduled to address the inquiry before Christmas.