The Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Boris Johnson, is in turmoil after several revelations by British media that he attended several parties during the confinements imposed by his own government. Partygate overview:
• Read also: “Partygate”: Boris Johnson on the defensive pending the conclusions of an investigation
At the top of the list, the famous “Bring your own booze party” (Bring your own drink) which was held in the Downing Street garden – main residence of the Prime Minister – during the first confinement in England in spring 2020. At least 30 people participated in the event, while citizens were not allowed to leave their homes except for essential reasons.
In May 2020, Boris Johnson took part in a wine and cheese evening, still at the Downing Street garden. At that time, health measures prohibited outdoor gatherings of more than two people. On a photo published by “The Guardian”, it is possible to see the Prime Minister in the company of his wife and members of his staff. Defensively, Boris Johnson says he was convinced it was a work event, reports BBC News.
In June 2020, Mr Johnson’s wife, Carrie, throws a surprise party to mark the Prime Minister’s birthday. Around 30 people participated in the event, according to “ITV News”. According to a spokeswoman for Boris Johnson, the Prime Minister was present at the rally for “less than ten minutes”.
On November 13, 2020, the day Dominic Cummings, a senior adviser to the Prime Minister, resigned, an “organized” party was said to have taken place at Boris Johnson’s main residence. That same month, Mr. Johnson also reportedly delivered a speech during an impromptu event to mark the departure of another employee, Cleo Watson.
In December 2020, Boris Johnson reportedly took part in several gatherings, including an office party, a Downing Street Christmas party, a Department for Transport party and another for the Department for Education, among others.
While even Queen Elizabeth II had to grieve alone for her husband, Prince Philip, the Prime Minister’s Office organized two events to mark the departure of work colleagues the day before the Prince Consort’s funeral. Boris Johnson has apologized to the Royal Family. “It is unfortunate that [les événements] took place during this period of national mourning,” said Jamie Davies, spokesperson for the Prime Minister.
AFP
According to British tabloid ‘The Mirror’, staff at the prime minister’s main residence held wine parties every Friday night during the pandemic. It is not known whether Boris Johnson participated in these evenings, but sources indicate that he would have encouraged his employees to “let off steam” despite the health rules.
Two investigations, including a police officer, are underway in the United Kingdom in connection with these gatherings. Pending the publication of one of these, Boris Johnson has multiplied the excuses and the efforts to defend his integrity.
– With Agence France-Presse, The Guardian, BBC News, ITV NEWS and “The Mirror”