I am quite sure that the short answer to this question is - we will never know exactly, but this article from the Telegraph (via the DS) certainly suggests that the numbers were exaggerated:
Covid Deaths “Impossible to Calculate” as Authorities Used 14 Different Definitions, Say Oxford Researchers
The direct link to the report:
From the Findings section:
Some responses indicate that SARS-CoV-2 negative individuals were classified as “COVID-19 deaths”.
Post mortem examinations were uncommon
7.6% of care home “COVID-19” deaths mentioned no other contributory factors even though obviously those who died were very elderly.
This makes my head explode!!!
First of all, why are they still pushing this garbage, even as their con game is being exposed, and for crying out loud - why is anyone still falling for it???