After a hiatus of several weeks, the ‘Partygate’ affair over British Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s banned lockdown parties is back on the London political agenda. Downing Street denied a report over Easter weekend that Johnson allegedly hosted the celebration at his office, gathered colleagues and served drinks at an event under investigation by police.
A statement from the prime minister is expected in the House of Commons on Tuesday, when the British Parliament returns from the Easter recess. Johnson was fined last week for one of the parties. This makes him the first sitting prime minister to break the law.
However, in his statement, Johnson reportedly wants to argue that there are more important issues at stake — such as the war in Ukraine or the cost of living crisis — and that his colleagues should focus on those rather than past parties.
However, it is possible that the Speaker of the House of Commons, Lindsay Hoyle, will allow a vote on whether Johnson will be sent to a committee to determine whether he has broken the so-called Ministerial Code – a sort of code of conduct for members of government. .
Colleagues from their own ranks also demanded resignation
The “Partygate” affair had put Johnson under enormous pressure for months. A number of MPs from his own ranks also publicly called for his resignation. However, since the outbreak of the war, a vote of no confidence against the prime minister has become less likely. Some harsh critics have since backed off. However, more penalties for Johnson could follow.
Source: Krone
I’m Wayne Wickman, a professional journalist and author for Today Times Live. My specialty is covering global news and current events, offering readers a unique perspective on the world’s most pressing issues. I’m passionate about storytelling and helping people stay informed on the goings-on of our planet.
