Biteback signs Matt Hancock’s pandemic diaries

Independent publisher Biteback has acquired Pandemic Diaries by Matt Hancock, the former secretary of state for health and social care.

Publisher James Stephens brokered the deal for world rights directly with the author.

For 18 months, the MP for West Suffolk led the UK government’s response to the coronavirus pandemic until resigning as health secretary in June 2021 after the leak of CCTV footage of him kissing then colleague Gina Coladangelo. The book will recount first-hand the events and decisions as they unfolded throughout the pandemic, the publisher said.

"The book will provide a unique and candid account of Britain’s battle to turn the tide against Covid-19," the synopsis reads. "For the first time, Hancock will reveal the crucial moments of the struggle to save lives and the race to develop the vaccine. He will give his unique perspective on how the NHS rose to the challenge, recognising the incredible hard work and sacrifice of so many. He will offer an honest assessment of the lessons we need to learn for next time—because there will be a next time."

The book will be published in October and Hancock’s royalties will be donated to NHS charities.