Prime Minister Johnson Invites 100 to Residence Party... Police Under Investigation

Prime Minister Boris Johnson (right in the photo) and his chief secretary Martin Reynolds. (Photo by The Guardian)

[Asia Economy Reporter Yujin Cho] It has been confirmed that UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson violated COVID-19 regulations during the first lockdown by inviting 100 people to a drinking party at the official residence, prompting a police investigation.

On the 10th (local time), British media outlets such as The Guardian and ITV News obtained the invitation email for the party held at the official residence on May 20, 2020, reporting that the Prime Minister's office initially intended to invite about 100 officials and staff from the residence.

The invitation email stated, "After a very busy period, it would be nice to enjoy the good weather by holding a socially distanced drinking party in the garden of the residence this evening," and "Please bring your own drinks and join us from 6 p.m."

The email, written by Martin Reynolds, Johnson's chief secretary, was sent to about 100 residence staff, including speechwriters and security personnel.

About 40 people, including Prime Minister Johnson and his spouse, reportedly attended the party held at 10 Downing Street in London. A witness said, "There was a long table filled with drinks, snacks, and sausage rolls among the party attendees," adding, "It was a proper drinking gathering."

At the time, COVID-19 was raging, and Johnson had issued the first lockdown, with the UK government allowing gatherings of only up to two people outside of household members.

The Guardian reported that the police are investigating the case on suspicion of violating COVID-19 regulations.

A spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police said, "We are aware of allegations of (COVID-19) health law violations raised at Downing Street on May 20, 2020," and "We are in contact with the Cabinet Office."

This incident is expected to deal a significant blow to Prime Minister Johnson, who is already facing his worst political crisis due to by-election defeats and declining approval ratings.

Earlier, Johnson and his staff were suspected of holding several parties during the COVID-19 lockdown period, including a Christmas party at the Prime Minister's office during the nationwide lockdown in December of the same year.

Johnson's political position has become increasingly precarious as key minister David Frost, the Brexit Secretary, resigned in opposition to the COVID-19 policies, lobbying involving Dyson's founder was exposed, and allegations of misuse of political donations surfaced.

According to a recent survey conducted by the British polling agency Opinium, 59% of respondents said they do not support Prime Minister Johnson.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.