There was relief in Downing Street last week when the police concluded their investigation into Covid rule breaches across government. Despite being investigated for several alleged incidents, the Prime Minister only received one fine – for an event involving birthday cake in the middle of the day. Boris Johnson was not fined in relation to the more serious allegations of events in breach of Covid rules – which included late night drinking and partying in the No. 10 flat. Only that sense of optimism may prove short lived.
It also serves as a reminder to MPs of the risks of backing Johnson when they don’t know what else could come out.
The impending publication of Sue Gray’s report into the whole affair means that the whole episode is not over yet. What’s more, this afternoon, ITV have published a series of embarrassing photographs of the Prime Minister raising a toast 13 November to say farewell to his departing comms chief Lee Cain.
The picture is tricky for the Prime Minister as while the police may have found no reason to fine him, it very much looks like a social event.
Comments
Join the debate for just $5 for 3 months
Be part of the conversation with other Spectator readers by getting your first three months for $5.
UNLOCK ACCESS Just $5 for 3 monthsAlready a subscriber? Log in