Downing Street Party May 2020

Thank you for contacting me following the reports of Downing Street parties and gatherings in Government departments during the Coronavirus restrictions.

As you are aware, these reports are being investigated by Sue Gray, who is a civil servant in the Cabinet Office, and her conclusions are expected in the next weeks. Whilst we await the outcome of her inquiry and the response to it, I also recognise the intense hurt and anger which these gatherings have stirred in many people, particularly those who like yourself obeyed all the rules, and in many cases suffered terribly as a result of the restrictions. This has been particularly distressing for many people who are grieving, and coming to terms with loss where these events, which have been so widely covered in the media, have re-ignited their pain and anguish.

The most recent reports of an event taking place in Downing Street on 16 April, the eve of His Royal Highness Prince Philip’s funeral, was in stark contrast to the solitary vigil of Her Majesty the Queen the following day as she behaved in accordance with the restrictions which were in place at the time.

Many of my constituents have written to me telling me about their experiences and I hope that the report from Sue Gray will uncover all the facts and provide some answers which will inform the way forward.