I suspect this from listening to scientists and experts on how the figures are being formulated.
I don't deny that every death is tragic.
I'm not saying that those most susceptible shouldn't be protected to prevent them being taken early.
I wouldn't want to be the one making these decisions.
However, my point is that I strongly suspect that there will be worse suffering because of the way we've trashed the economy.
Not because I value the economy above lives, but because of the possibility of more lives being ruined and lost due to lockdown.
What was your reaction during those years when tens of thousands of people died due to a particularly bad winter flu outbreak?
I wasn't even aware of the numbers.
People are dying and will continue to die because of our continued policy towards this virus.
You're absolutely right that all elements need to be taken into account.
The "bill" for this particular episode will not ever be fully known - the associated deaths, misery, mental health, lost future opportunities, even educational deficiencies, it will be impossible to fully attribute root causes.
Although not one country came even close to being fully prepared for this, it is clear which ones have made a better fist of it and who are likely to come out best. It is no secret that those countries are the ones that take a much longer term view on their politics.
Not particularly well known but out of the "true" Scandinavian trio, Sweden has not been performing particularly well, was in much more of a need to keep the economy going than Norway or Denmark. The assistance provided to its people from NOR and DK was immediate and without any excess of bureaucracy, very, very few persons were caught in the no mans land, that you have had to face.
There have been parts that could have been conducted better, these have been dealt with in a transparent, open and clear manner.
The EU Procurement story is a case in point - It was never expected that the approach would be able to secure volumes immediately - the first consignments are ready in 10 days. These are in preparation for final part of phase 1 and for the more than likely phase 2 of this outbreak.
This was led by Germany and has included many countries outside of the EU, who gladly took up the offer. I will reserve comment as to what the Civil Service did on this (maintaining Cumming's letter of law).
As for the previous Flu epidemic(s) - it's again all quite boring really - those that have looked after their prized assets such as health, education, key industries, social equality with a long term perspective - fared much better.
Sorry, I can't answer better, monstrously busy (don't mean that as a pisstake) - I could write for hours on this.
Can tell you that no European is enjoying the lack of leadership and clarity that the UK is suffering - they genuinely do care, at least on the levels I'm interacting on.
Please stay safe, your dilemma is not of your own making, and for God's sake all stay well.