Honiton's MP is "concerned" about reports of partying in government during lockdown

Conservative Member of Parliament for Honiton and Tiverton, Neil Parish, has told Nub News that he is concerned about reports of his government holding parties, Christmas quizzes and 'Wine-Time Fridays' during strict national lockdowns intended to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Widespread reports have emerged of staff at No. 10 Downing Street holding events which may have been in breach of the COVID-19 regulations on social distancing that were operational at the time.

Neil Paris said "I am concerned regarding the reports of events in Downing Street which may have contravened the rules which everyone so diligently followed to keep us all safe.

"We need the full truth to be aired about the Prime Minister's involvement, and to know exactly what happened.

"The inquiry by the senior Cabinet Office civil servant, Sue Gray, will determine that. However, as we await its outcome, the Prime Minister has rightly apologised to the House of Commons and to the nation for attending what may prove to be a rule-breaking event.

"Once the inquiry is concluded, the Prime Minister must return to the House of Commons and respond to its findings.

"I await the outcome of the inquiry, and what action the Prime Minister will take in response, if indeed he broke the rules that his government imposed."

It is not clear how Mr. Parish believes Boris Johnson should respond, if the investigation finds that lockdown rules were contravened.