Who is Clair Dobbin KC? The barrister questioning Boris Johnson at the UK Covid Inquiry

Clair Dobbin KC has become a key name in the UK Covid-19 Inquiry after questioning former Prime Minister Boris Johnson about his government’s handling of school closures during the pandemic. Her sharp and focused questioning has drawn national attention as she examined how decisions were made behind closed doors.

Who is Clair Dobbin KC: A leading British barrister

Clair Dobbin is a respected British barrister and King’s Counsel (KC) who works at 6 King’s Bench Walk Chambers, one of the top law firms in London. She became a KC in 2021, which is a title given to senior barristers who are recognized for their outstanding legal skills and experience.

Throughout her career, Dobbin has represented the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) and worked with the Attorney General’s Office in major national and international cases. Her legal work covers criminal law, terrorism, extradition, and public inquiries.

Her role in the UK Covid Inquiry

In the UK Covid-19 Inquiry, Clair Dobbin KC is one of the lead counsel assisting the investigation. She has been questioning senior politicians and officials about how government decisions were made during the Covid crisis.

During Boris Johnson’s evidence session, she asked if children’s interests were properly represented when schools were shut down. Dobbin pointed out that the Department for Education (DfE) often did not have a proper voice during crucial meetings.

She referred to the evidence of Gavin Williamson, the former Education Secretary, who claimed that some announcements about reopening schools took him by surprise. Her questions were aimed at finding out who really made the key decisions — the cabinet or Johnson himself.

Focus on school closures and testing

Dobbin also raised questions about school closures in January 2021, one of the most critical moments of the pandemic. She discussed statements made by Susan Acland-Hood, who was then the DfE’s permanent secretary. Acland-Hood had said that there was growing pressure from the government for mass testing in schools in December 2020.

Johnson agreed that he wanted to see testing as a way to keep schools open. However, Dobbin asked where the extra staff for mass testing would come from and mentioned possible tensions between the health and education departments.

Johnson admitted that by late December 2020, the seriousness of the Alpha variant had changed the situation, making it clear that more restrictions were unavoidable.

A strong voice in public law

Outside the Covid Inquiry, Clair Dobbin KC has handled several high-profile national security cases and fraud investigations. Her courtroom presence is known for being calm, logical, and precise. She has built a strong reputation as one of the UK’s most trusted female barristers in public and criminal law.

Her questioning style during the inquiry shows her ability to stay firm while seeking clarity, especially when dealing with political figures. Dobbin’s approach has earned her respect for putting facts above politics.