Many constituents have understandably contacted me regarding reports of numerous parties at Downing Street. It’s right that I speak to you directly and address this issue head on.
I share your disappointment and frustration at the thought of the Prime Minister, or any other Government official, breaking lockdown rules. It is unacceptable that those setting the rules were not following them at a time when people across the Forest, and the country, were making huge personal sacrifices.
As reports of the May 2020 party emerged, where the Prime Minister was present, I said that I would wait to hear the Prime Minister set out his explanation to the House of Commons at Prime Minister’s Questions last week.
The Prime Minister admitted to attending what I think most people will conclude was a party during the first lockdown when such things were against the law.
In the days following the Prime Minister’s unsatisfactory attempt at an apology, I was sickened to hear reports of senior political appointees partying in Downing Street the night before Her Majesty The Queen had to sit alone at the funeral of her beloved husband. I know that many of you share my anger at these reports in particular.
I am keen to read the report being prepared by Sue Gray, a senior civil servant with an impressive reputation for independence and integrity, which I hope will set out all the facts of the case. Once it is published, I will study the report with care.
When we know all the facts, it will be up to every Conservative MP – me included – to consider what action needs to be taken to ensure our country has the leadership it deserves.
From my condemnation of Dominic Cummings’ conduct in May 2020, to my role leading the Covid Recovery Group and the firm stance I took to criticise the handling of the Owen Paterson debacle – I hope that I have proven that I am not afraid of standing up for what’s right and holding the Government to account as your voice in Parliament. I shall continue to do just that in the future.