Figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) revealed that England suffered the longest period of excess deaths compared to any other country in Europe in the first half of 2020. It had the second highest peak behind Spain but the highest overall excess mortality rates.
Scientists say that excess mortality rates provide the best indication of the actual impact of the coronavirus pandemic.
Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland saw a slightly lower increase in excess deaths from previous years, though still more than most other European countries.
The UK as a whole registered the highest relative mortality rate for the week beginning 6 June – the last week that was included in the ONS report.
Full story in The Independent, 31 July 2020