Johnson backs aide who organised Downing Street ‘BYOB’ garden party

world
Johnson Backs Aide Who Organised Downing Street ‘Byob’ Garden Party
The British prime minister’s official spokesman said Martin Reynolds “continues in his role”. Photo: PA Images
Share this article

Geraldine Scott, PA Political Correspondent

The senior Downing Street official who invited more than 100 employees to a “bring your own booze” party in the No 10 garden during Covid restrictions retains the full confidence of the British prime minister.

Boris Johnson’s official spokesman confirmed Martin Reynolds, the prime minister’s principal private secretary, “continues in his role” after ITV news revealed he invited employees to the gathering during England’s first lockdown in May 2020.

Advertisement

Asked whether Mr Johnson still had full confidence in one of his most senior aides, the spokesman said he did.

Advertisement

 

The leaked email, which came to light on Monday, said: “Hi all, after what has been an incredibly busy period we thought it would be nice to make the most of the lovely weather and have some socially distanced drinks in the No 10 garden this evening.

“Please join us from 6pm and bring your own booze!”

Mr Johnson will avoid scrutiny over the allegation on Tuesday, as paymaster general Michael Ellis was instead dispatched to face an urgent question in the Commons.

Advertisement

Asked what Mr Johnson was doing rather than responding himself, the prime minister’s spokesman said: “I don’t have the full diary in front of me at the moment but it’s not uncommon, obviously, for government ministers to answer these sorts of questions.”

Read More

Message submitting... Thank you for waiting.

Want us to email you top stories each lunch time?

Download our Apps
© BreakingNews.ie 2024, developed by Square1 and powered by PublisherPlus.com