Sue Gray, the senior civil servant leading the inquiry into Downing Street parties, is expected to make deeply critical recommendations on overhauling No 10’s operation after hearing of repeated failures of leadership , according to a Whitehall source who spoke to the inquiry.
In the latest alleged breach of rules, No 10 admitted that Carrie Johnson had held a party for the prime minister and up to 30 staffon 19 June 2020 despite Covid rules banning indoor social gatherings. Outdoor gatherings were limited to groups of six.
ITV reported that the prime minister attended the party in the cabinet room at No 10 at 2pm on his 56th birthday, and that the interior designer Lulu Lytle – who was not a member of No 10 staff– was there. The room was said to have been laid out with Marks & Spencer party food and a birthday cake, with staffsinging happy birthday and staying for 20-30 minutes.
No 10 said that the prime minister attended for 10 minutes and denied reports from ITV that he had held a party later on 19 June in his Downing Street residence. Gray is understood to have already been told about the allegations, meaning the latest exposé is unlikely to delay publication of her report, expected late this week.
A spokesperson for Lytle said she was working on the controversial refurbishment of Johnson’s flat that day, adding: “ Lulu was not invited to any birthday celebrations for the prime minister as a guest. Lulu entered the cabinet room briefly as requested, while waiting to speak with the prime minister.”
Bu hikaye The Guardian dergisinin January 25, 2022 sayısından alınmıştır.
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Bu hikaye The Guardian dergisinin January 25, 2022 sayısından alınmıştır.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Giriş Yap
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