At the very outset of the report of parties in Downing Street I publicly stated:
“I am disappointed and concerned by the parties held at Number 10. The rules were clear at that time and I think everyone has been aware of the rules and guidelines throughout the pandemic.
My constituents in Wimbledon have followed the rules and many have made personal sacrifices. They have the right to expect that everyone, whoever they are, acted as they did and respected the rules.
There is no justification for anyone breaking the rules.”
Moreover, as the Gray Update was published I also pointed to finding (ii) that:
“at least some of the gatherings in questions represent a serious failure to observe not just the high standards expected of those working at the heart of Government but also of the standards expected of the entire British population at the time.”
And to finding (iii) that there were serious failures of leadership and judgement by different parts of No10 and the Cabinet Office.
These are very serious initial criticisms of the leadership of No10 and our PM. I have sought to ensure that the Prime Minister understood the seriousness of this criticism and the level of response and apology that was required. I told the Prime Minister that Wimbledon residents were critical of his leadership and disapproved of the seeming “one rule for one and one for another”.
I have publicly on two occasions in the last week criticised the Prime Minister for his words against Sir Keir Starmer. His words were poorly thought through and not acceptable language from a Prime Minister. I have asked that he apologises and withdraw his remarks. I am grateful to the many constituents who have written to me in support of my remarks.
I am extremely concerned the Police are investigating the majority of events mentioned in Sue Gray’s update. Furthermore, the emergence of photos of the Prime Minister present at one of the events which the Metropolitan Police had previously not been investigating is deeply concerning. I will be releasing a further comment upon the conclusion of the police investigation.
I believe in honesty and integrity in political life and have always sought to maintain these standards. As a backbencher I will do all I can to represent these ideals and ensure that everyone in UK political life does the same.
19/01/21
I can appreciate the widespread concern regarding the ongoing revelations about which I am not happy. I welcome the fact all parties are being investigated in Sue Gray’s report. I will consider her report carefully and then decide how to respond.
13/01/21
I am disappointed and concerned by the parties held at Number 10. The rules were clear at that time and I think everyone has been aware of the rules and guidelines throughout the pandemic.
My constituents in Wimbledon have followed the rules and many have made personal sacrifices. They have the right to expect that everyone, whoever they are, acted as they did and respected the rules.
There is no justification for anyone breaking the rules.