Lichfield’s MP says he understands the anger felt by those who lost loved ones during the Covid pandemic – but told the House of Commons that attending a leaving gathering is a valid work event.
Michael Fabricant’s comments come after the publication of the Sue Gray report.
The long-awaited review of gatherings at Downing Street during lockdown found that many events “should not have been allowed”.
After highlighting excessive drinking, the senior civil servant also said leadership “at the centre, both political and official, must bear responsibility for this culture”.
But Mr Fabricant told the House of Commons that Boris Johnson had been given incorrect information by civil servants.
“I understand the outrage and anger of people in Lichfield and Burntwood and elsewhere who have lost loved ones.
“But I also understand, having been an employer, that attending an event where someone is leaving is considered to be a work event, and my Rt Hon Friend clearly got guidance from civil servants that turned out to be wrong.
“Can he now explain how the appointment of a new Permanent Secretary at Number 10 will make a difference in the future?”
Michael Fabricant
The Prime Minister replied:
“Not only has the structure of Number 10 changed, so that there is more direct command and control for the whole building where hundreds and hundreds work, which was unclear before, there is also a new Permanent Secretary with direct responsibility for the whole office, as opposed to that function being addressed nominally by the Principal Private Secretary.
“As Sue Gray said, the lines of command were not clear previously.”
Boris Johnson
