It reported Mr Johnson surprised staff by turning up on screen as quiz master for one round lasting between 10 and 15 minutes.Ī No 10 spokeswoman said: "This was a virtual quiz.
The Sunday Mirror quoted a source who claimed many staff were huddled by computers, conferring on questions and drinking alcohol while the quiz was taking place. Official guidance at the time stated: "Although there are exemptions for work purposes, you must not have a work Christmas lunch or party, where that is a primarily social activity and is not otherwise permitted by the rules in your tier." In response, Labour accused the PM of presiding over a "culture of disregard for the rules". The Sunday Mirror said the event happened on December 15. The image, published by the Sunday Mirror, shows a screen with Mr Johnson sitting in front of a laptop in the No 10 library.ĭowning Street said the Conservative Party leader had "briefly" taken part "virtually" in the quiz. Formal disciplinary action was taken against four CCHQ staff seconded to the campaign."Ī picture has emerged of the prime minister is taking part in an online Downing Street quiz flanked by colleagues. It is described by the newspaper as a "raucous bash".Ī Conservative spokesperson told Sky News: "CCHQ staff became aware of an unauthorised social gathering in basement of Matthew Parker Street organised by the Bailey campaign on 14th December. The Times reported that a party was held at Conservative Campaign Headquarters (CCHQ) with Tory mayoral candidate Shaun Bailey and "at least two dozen party aides and volunteers". The Times said Chancellor Rishi Sunak was not at the event and it is understood he was not aware of it at the time. "The Treasury did not organise an in-person departmental party last Christmas."Īt the time, non-essential shops, leisure and entertainment venues were closed as well as pubs, bars and restaurants, and people were urged to stay at home except for limited reasons including work if it could not be done from home. "We have been made aware that a small number of staff had impromptu drinks around their desks after the event. The Times reported that around two dozen civil servants were present for the drinks on November 25 last year, while officials worked on the autumn Spending Review.Ī Treasury spokesman said: "A number of HMT staff came into the office to work on the Spending Review 2020. The Treasury has confirmed "impromptu drinks" occurred when England was locked down due to rising coronavirus cases. Will the CABSEC also be asked to investigate the *flat* party on Fri 13 Nov, the other flat parties, & the flat's 'bubble' policy.?- Dominic Cummings December 8, 2021
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