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The prime minister and his wife Carrie were among around 40 people to attend a drinks event in the Downing Street garden during the UK’s first national COVID lockdown, Sky News understands.
In what has been revealed to have been a “bring your own booze” event on 20 May 2020, a Downing Street figure said both Mr Johnson and his then fiancee were present.
A Whitehall investigation is already underway into multiple allegations of coronavirus rule-breaking in both Number 10 and other government buildings, which was prompted by initial claims of Christmas parties in Downing Street in 2020.
The inquiry has since been widened to include two alleged events on 15 and 20 May, the latter of which was initially revealed by Dominic Cummings – the prime minister’s estranged former chief adviser.
A leaked email has now emerged from Martin Reynolds – a key aide to Boris Johnson – inviting staff to “make the most of the lovely weather” with “some socially distanced drinks”.
According to ITV News, who obtained the email, Mr Reynolds’ message on 20 May was sent to more than 100 employees in Number 10, including the prime minister’s advisers, speechwriters and door staff.
The around 40 attendees are reported to have gathered in the garden that evening to eat picnic food and drink.
At the time, Britons had only recently been allowed to meet with one person from another household outside as long as they remained two metres apart.
Mixing with multiple households was still banned.
The leaked email states: “Hi all,
“After what has been an incredibly busy period we thought it would be nice to make the most of this lovely weather and have some socially distanced drinks in the No10 garden this evening.
“Please join us from 6pm and bring your own booze!
“Martin.”
Using his nickname of “the trolley” for Mr Johnson, Mr Cummings on Monday claimed that the prime minister “was there” at the 20 May event.
Doubts had already been cast over Mr Reynolds’ position in Number 10…
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Source : skynews
