Despite denying for years having attended&nbsp;one of the lockdown parties, a new report has revealed that UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson led one of the Downing Street parties in 2020 and even poured drinks to the staff, according to local media reports.

The Sunday Times newspaper reported that a farewell gathering for Lee Cain, his communications director, in November 2020 turned into a party after Johnson showed up.

&nbsp;“He said he wanted to say a few words for Lee and started pouring drinks for people and drinking himself,” a source told the paper.

It is further claimed that Johnson even encouraged his staff to socialise even though indoor socialising was prohibited and asked them to “let off steam”.

Meanwhile, the explosive report has caused a stir with the opposition Labour party demanding Johnson’s resignation.

Deputy Labour&nbsp;leader Angela Rayner accused Johnson of demeaning his office by lying to the public.

&nbsp;“While the British public was making huge sacrifices, Boris Johnson was breaking the law,” Rayner told the Guardian.

“If the latest reports are true, it would mean that not only did the prime minister attend parties, but he had a hand in instigating at least one of them. He has deliberately misled the British people at every turn.”

“The prime minister has demeaned his office. The British people deserve better. While Labour has a plan for tackling the cost of living crisis, Tory MPs are too busy defending the indefensible actions of Boris Johnson.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/partygate-scandal-british-pm-boris-johnson-and-finance-minister-rishi-sunak-fined-470579">'Partygate' scandal: British PM Boris Johnson and finance minister Rishi Sunak fined</a>

Jonson has already been fined for attending one of the parties and&nbsp;is expected to receive two more fines for lockdown-breaking parties.

Apart from Jonson, his wife Carrie and finance minister Rishi Sunak have also been fined for breaking lockdown laws on June 19, 2020, celebrating the prime minister’s 56th birthday.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-boris-johnson-agrees-after-rishi-sunak-requested-review-of-his-own-financial-declarations-470363" hreflang="en">UK PM Boris Johnson agrees after Rishi Sunak requested review of his own financial declarations</a>

It is claimed that out of 12 parties that took place in 10 Downing Street, Johnson attended six of them.

Watch |&nbsp;Boris Johnson 'poured drinks' at Downing Street party, more trouble in sight for UK PM

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(With inputs from agencies)

Despite denying for years having attended one of the lockdown parties, a new report has revealed that UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson led one of the Downing Street parties in 2020 and even poured drinks to the staff, according to local media reports.

Despite denying for years having attended one of the lockdown parties, a new report has revealed that UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson led one of the Downing Street parties in 2020 and even poured drinks to the staff, according to local media reports. The Sunday Times newspaper reported that a farewell gathering for Lee Cain, his communications director, in November 2020 turned into a party after Johnson showed up. “He said he wanted to say a few words for Lee and started pouring drinks for people and drinking himself,” a source told the paper. It is further claimed that Johnson even encouraged his staff to socialise even though indoor socialising was prohibited and asked them to “let off steam”. Meanwhile, the explosive report has caused a stir with the opposition Labour party demanding Johnson’s resignation. Deputy Labour leader Angela Rayner accused Johnson of demeaning his office by lying to the public. “While the British public was making huge sacrifices, Boris Johnson was breaking the law,” Rayner told the Guardian. “If the latest reports are true, it would mean that not only did the prime minister attend parties, but he had a hand in instigating at least one of them. He has deliberately misled the British people at every turn.” “The prime minister has demeaned his office. The British people deserve better. While Labour has a plan for tackling the cost of living crisis, Tory MPs are too busy defending the indefensible actions of Boris Johnson.” Also read | 'Partygate' scandal: British PM Boris Johnson and finance minister Rishi Sunak fined Jonson has already been fined for attending one of the parties and is expected to receive two more fines for lockdown-breaking parties. Apart from Jonson, his wife Carrie and finance minister Rishi Sunak have also been fined for breaking lockdown laws on June 19, 2020, celebrating the prime minister’s 56th birthday. Also read | UK PM Boris Johnson agrees after Rishi Sunak requested review of his own financial declarations It is claimed that out of 12 parties that took place in 10 Downing Street, Johnson attended six of them. Watch | Boris Johnson 'poured drinks' at Downing Street party, more trouble in sight for UK PM (With inputs from agencies)

UK PM Boris Johnson instigated lockdown party in Downing Street: Report

In connection with their investigation into alleged breaches of lockdown rules at gatherings held at Prime Minister Boris Johnson's office and residence, the Metropolitan Police reported on Monday that they have begun interviewing witnesses.

A police investigation is currently underway into 12 gatherings held at Downing Street after an internal investigation found Johnson's staff had attended alcohol-fueled parties, with the British leader making an appearance at some of the events.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-boris-johnson-triggers-outrage-by-comparing-ukraine-crisis-with-brexit-463994">UK PM Boris Johnson triggers outrage by comparing Ukraine crisis with Brexit</a>

"Detectives investigating allegations of breaches of COVID-19 regulations in Downing Street and Whitehall have begun to interview people, as witnesses, as part of their ongoing enquiries," the Met said in a statement.

Police say over 100 questionnaires have been sent in connection with the investigation, with initial responses helping identify more individuals who are now being sent questionnaires.

Johnson was among those who received a questionnaire about the gatherings.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-johnson-says-west-made-terrible-mistake-by-letting-putin-get-away-with-annexing-crimea-462668">UK PM Johnson says West made 'terrible mistake' by letting Putin get away with annexing Crimea</a>

The alleged gatherings took place at a time when many people due to COVID-19 lockdown rules weren't even given the chance to attend funerals or say goodbye to loved ones who were dying in hospitals.

There was widespread anger about the revelations, and even a few politicians within the prime minister's party joined the opposition in calling for him to resign.

Watch |&nbsp;UK Downing Street: Police begin interviews with key Partygate witnesses

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In the wake of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, some, such as Douglas Ross, a Conservative leader in Scotland, backed away from that call, saying that the focus now should be on the war.

According to the police, no individuals have yet been referred for a fixed penalty notice, which is issued to those suspected of breaking COVID rules.

In the statement, it was stated that the investigation was proceeding as quickly as possible, but it did not indicate when it would be completed.

(With inputs from agencies)

In connection with their investigation into alleged breaches of lockdown rules at gatherings held at Prime Minister Boris Johnson's office and residence, the Metropolitan Police reported on Monday that they have begun interviewing witnesses.

In connection with their investigation into alleged breaches of lockdown rules at gatherings held at Prime Minister Boris Johnson's office and residence, the Metropolitan Police reported on Monday that they have begun interviewing witnesses. A police investigation is currently underway into 12 gatherings held at Downing Street after an internal investigation found Johnson's staff had attended alcohol-fueled parties, with the British leader making an appearance at some of the events. Also read | UK PM Boris Johnson triggers outrage by comparing Ukraine crisis with Brexit "Detectives investigating allegations of breaches of COVID-19 regulations in Downing Street and Whitehall have begun to interview people, as witnesses, as part of their ongoing enquiries," the Met said in a statement. Police say over 100 questionnaires have been sent in connection with the investigation, with initial responses helping identify more individuals who are now being sent questionnaires. Johnson was among those who received a questionnaire about the gatherings. Also read | UK PM Johnson says West made 'terrible mistake' by letting Putin get away with annexing Crimea The alleged gatherings took place at a time when many people due to COVID-19 lockdown rules weren't even given the chance to attend funerals or say goodbye to loved ones who were dying in hospitals. There was widespread anger about the revelations, and even a few politicians within the prime minister's party joined the opposition in calling for him to resign. Watch | UK Downing Street: Police begin interviews with key Partygate witnesses In the wake of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, some, such as Douglas Ross, a Conservative leader in Scotland, backed away from that call, saying that the focus now should be on the war. According to the police, no individuals have yet been referred for a fixed penalty notice, which is issued to those suspected of breaking COVID rules. In the statement, it was stated that the investigation was proceeding as quickly as possible, but it did not indicate when it would be completed. (With inputs from agencies)

Interviews begin in Downing Street lockdown party scandal investigation

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s wife Carrie reportedly organised a birthday party for her husband in June 2020 when the nation was under lockdown, British newspaper The Telegraph has reported.

It is being claimed that Carrie asked a Downing Street official to make sure other staff got together to celebrate the PM’s 56th birthday.

The disclosers were made after the officials previously denied Carrie’s involvement in organising the lockdown-breaching party, which was reportedly attended by at least 30 people.

This report also contradicts an official from Downing Street denying that the gathering even took place in the first place.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/downing-street-reacts-to-claims-that-uk-pm-boris-johnson-had-lockdown-birthday-party-447310">Downing Street reacts to claims that UK PM Boris Johnson had lockdown birthday party</a>

According to ITV News, the birthday gathering was held in Cabinet Room No. 10 on June 19, 2020, and even attended by the Johnsons’ interior designer, Lulu Lytle.

Following the revelations, several British media claim that Carrie would now be asked to depose before the Sue Gray-led panel, which is now probing eight of the 17 gatherings which took place between May 2020 and April 2021.

The latest findings would blow a heavy dent in Johnson’s credibility who is currently embattled over organising parties when the nation was battling the first phase of the Coronavirus.

In pics |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/boris-johnson-kim-kardashian-novak-djokovic-heres-a-list-of-most-famous-covid-19-rulebreakers-444829">Boris Johnson, Kim Kardashian, Novak Djokovic: Here's a list of most famous COVID-19 rulebreakers</a>

There have been growing calls from the opposition and even from the ruling Conservative Party, asking Johnson to step down.

Senior civil servant Sue Gray is expected to disclose the report this week, but the timing of the release is not known, as the Metropolitan Police, which is also investigating the case, asked the top official to make minimal references to the parties in her report to avoid prejudicing its inquiry.

The police inquiry is understood to be still ongoing, but Gray may be forced to decide whether to delay her report or strip out key details, reported Mirror.

(With inputs from agencies)

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s wife Carrie reportedly organised a birthday party for her husband in June 2020 when the nation was under lockdown, British newspaper The Telegraph has reported.

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s wife Carrie reportedly organised a birthday party for her husband in June 2020 when the nation was under lockdown, British newspaper The Telegraph has reported. It is being claimed that Carrie asked a Downing Street official to make sure other staff got together to celebrate the PM’s 56th birthday. The disclosers were made after the officials previously denied Carrie’s involvement in organising the lockdown-breaching party, which was reportedly attended by at least 30 people. This report also contradicts an official from Downing Street denying that the gathering even took place in the first place. Also read | Downing Street reacts to claims that UK PM Boris Johnson had lockdown birthday party According to ITV News, the birthday gathering was held in Cabinet Room No. 10 on June 19, 2020, and even attended by the Johnsons’ interior designer, Lulu Lytle. Following the revelations, several British media claim that Carrie would now be asked to depose before the Sue Gray-led panel, which is now probing eight of the 17 gatherings which took place between May 2020 and April 2021. The latest findings would blow a heavy dent in Johnson’s credibility who is currently embattled over organising parties when the nation was battling the first phase of the Coronavirus. In pics | Boris Johnson, Kim Kardashian, Novak Djokovic: Here's a list of most famous COVID-19 rulebreakers There have been growing calls from the opposition and even from the ruling Conservative Party, asking Johnson to step down. Senior civil servant Sue Gray is expected to disclose the report this week, but the timing of the release is not known, as the Metropolitan Police, which is also investigating the case, asked the top official to make minimal references to the parties in her report to avoid prejudicing its inquiry. The police inquiry is understood to be still ongoing, but Gray may be forced to decide whether to delay her report or strip out key details, reported Mirror. (With inputs from agencies)

UK PM Johnson’s wife organised birthday party during lockdown: Report

Amid massive backlash over lockdown-breaching parties, the United Kingdom Prime Minister Boris Johnson is facing renewed criticism for having a birthday party in 2020, when such gatherings were banned in the country.&nbsp;

As per a report by ITV, Johnson's then-fiancée Carrie Symonds (now wife) had organised a surprise party for his 56th birthday, which was on June 19, 2020.&nbsp;

The report mentioned that up to 30 people were present at the party held at Downing Street.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-anti-fraud-minister-resigns-over-govts-lamentable-record-in-tackling-covid-19-fraud-447251">UK anti-fraud minister resigns over govt’s ‘lamentable’ record in tackling COVID-19 fraud</a>

As per the report, interior designer Lulu Lytle, who was apparently working on Johnson's flat was included in the party, which was believed to be held in the Cabinet Room of Downing Street.&nbsp;

The staff sang happy birthday during the party, which reportedly lasted for around half an hour. Carrie and Lulu allegedly presented Johnson with a cake.&nbsp;

In response, Downing Street denied the ITV report, stating that staff gathered briefly after a meeting and Johnson attended for less than 10 minutes.&nbsp;

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/boris-johnson-kim-kardashian-novak-djokovic-heres-a-list-of-most-famous-covid-19-rulebreakers-444829">Boris Johnson, Kim Kardashian, Novak Djokovic: Here's a list of most famous COVID-19 rulebreakers</a>

No 10 denied the report as "totally untrue" a second allegation that the prime minister held a separate party that evening with family friends, saying he met a small number of family members outside.

As quoted by BBC, a No 10 spokesperson said: "This is totally untrue. In line with the rules at the time the prime minister hosted a small number of family members outside that evening."

In 2020, the UK had placed coronavirus (COVID-19) rules and restrictions as social gatherings were only permitted between 6 people outside.&nbsp;

The latest claim is made amid an ongoing investigation over lockdown parties at Downing Street attended by Boris Johnson and his staff members.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;UK PM Boris Johnson faces new allegations of racism in his party

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Amid massive backlash over lockdown-breaching parties, the United Kingdom Prime Minister Boris Johnson is facing renewed criticism for having a birthday party in 2020, when such gatherings were banned in the country.

Amid massive backlash over lockdown-breaching parties, the United Kingdom Prime Minister Boris Johnson is facing renewed criticism for having a birthday party in 2020, when such gatherings were banned in the country. As per a report by ITV, Johnson's then-fiancée Carrie Symonds (now wife) had organised a surprise party for his 56th birthday, which was on June 19, 2020. The report mentioned that up to 30 people were present at the party held at Downing Street. ALSO READ | UK anti-fraud minister resigns over govt’s ‘lamentable’ record in tackling COVID-19 fraud As per the report, interior designer Lulu Lytle, who was apparently working on Johnson's flat was included in the party, which was believed to be held in the Cabinet Room of Downing Street. The staff sang happy birthday during the party, which reportedly lasted for around half an hour. Carrie and Lulu allegedly presented Johnson with a cake. In response, Downing Street denied the ITV report, stating that staff gathered briefly after a meeting and Johnson attended for less than 10 minutes. IN PICS | Boris Johnson, Kim Kardashian, Novak Djokovic: Here's a list of most famous COVID-19 rulebreakers No 10 denied the report as "totally untrue" a second allegation that the prime minister held a separate party that evening with family friends, saying he met a small number of family members outside. As quoted by BBC, a No 10 spokesperson said: "This is totally untrue. In line with the rules at the time the prime minister hosted a small number of family members outside that evening." In 2020, the UK had placed coronavirus (COVID-19) rules and restrictions as social gatherings were only permitted between 6 people outside. The latest claim is made amid an ongoing investigation over lockdown parties at Downing Street attended by Boris Johnson and his staff members. WATCH | UK PM Boris Johnson faces new allegations of racism in his party ×

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