It is a week since the Daily Mirror first published reports about parties held in Downing Street last year which may have breached COVID rules.
Although the prime minister has refused to deny parties took place, he has repeatedly insisted guidance was followed at all times.
But new leaked footage broadcast by ITV News, has drawn that account into question.
This timeline brings together the dates on which the gatherings took place, and what ministers, government spokespersons and Boris Johnson himself have said since.
27 November 2020
Boris Johnson gives a speech at a leaving party for a member of staff in Downing Street during the second national lockdown, according to reports in the Daily Mirror.
16 December 2020
Tier 3 restrictions come into effect in London, meaning people were not allowed to mix indoors with anyone outside their household or support bubble.
18 December 2020
A party takes place in Downing Street with around 40 people in attendance, according to sources who have spoken to Sky News. The party was organised via WhatsApp, with staff encouraged to bring “Secret Santa” presents, according to The Times.
22 December 2020
As staff in Downing Street prepare to launch daily press briefings in a new custom-built media room, Boris Johnson’s then-spokeswoman Allegra Stratton takes questions from colleagues as part of a rehearsal.
During the rehearsal Number 10 special advisor Ed Oldfield poses a question about a party that took place in Downing Street a few days earlier.
The rehearsal is being recorded.
30 November 2021
The Daily Mirror publishes a story revealing the events that took place in Downing Street on both 27 November and 18 December the previous year, prompting denials that COVID rules were broken.
1 December 2021
The prime minister was asked about the party by Labour leader Sir…
Source : skynews
