…By Lola Smith for TDPel Media.
Downing Street has stood by the parliamentary committee tasked with investigating whether Boris Johnson misled MPs regarding the partygate scandal, despite facing criticism from the former prime minister and his allies.
The Privileges Committee convened on Monday to finalize its report on Johnson, who labeled the inquiry a “witch hunt” as he dramatically announced his resignation from the House of Commons.
The probe is believed to have concluded that Johnson lied to Parliament when he claimed that COVID-19 rules were followed in Downing Street while social distancing restrictions were in place.
Confidence in the Committee’s Work
Amid the attacks on the committee’s integrity, a spokesperson for Rishi Sunak expressed confidence in the MPs’ work, stating that they were fulfilling the duties assigned to them by Parliament.
Downing Street’s spokesman emphasized that the government will not undermine or criticize the committee’s work, highlighting that they are carrying out the tasks mandated by Parliament.
Defense from Conservative Figures and Response to Johnson’s Attacks
Conservative former Cabinet minister Damian Green defended the committee, describing Johnson’s attacks as “unfortunate and wrong.”
Green voiced his support for the committee’s work and criticized Johnson’s decision to leave Parliament before the report’s publication.
In response to Johnson’s accusations, a committee spokesperson expressed concern that he had cast doubt on the House’s integrity.
Cabinet Minister’s Response and Additional Security Measures
Cabinet minister Michael Gove defended the committee’s integrity but refrained from reprimanding fellow party members.
Gove stressed the need to respect the integrity of the process and wait for the report’s publication before debating its conclusions and consequences.
Gove also addressed the reported need for additional security measures for committee members, deploring the situation and emphasizing the importance of respecting the safety of MPs.
Condemnation of Threats and Unacceptable Behavior
Rishi Sunak’s spokesperson denounced the reported threats against committee members as completely unacceptable.
They emphasized that any threats made towards MPs are unacceptable, while acknowledging that further details surrounding the reported threats were not available.
The condemnation highlights the need to protect the safety and security of MPs engaged in their parliamentary duties.
Conclusion:
Downing Street has firmly supported the Privileges Committee’s investigation into Boris Johnson’s alleged misleading of MPs regarding partygate.
Despite Johnson’s criticism, key figures within the Conservative Party defended the committee and expressed confidence in its work.
The focus now turns to the impending publication of the committee’s report, which is expected to shed further light on the matter and its potential consequences.