Met Police Reopen Partygate Probe Amid Shocking New Evidence
The Metropolitan Police have slammed the brakes on Partygate, reopening a key investigation into alleged Covid rule-breaking at Downing Street. The move comes after fresh video evidence forced a rethink over events in 2020 and 2021.
New Evidence Sparks Fresh Covid Breach Investigation
In a joint statement with Thames Valley Police, the Met laid out their strict criteria for reopening cases: serious breaches, clear evidence offenders knew the rules, harm to public trust in the law, and no reasonable defence.
“We carefully assessed new evidence and decided a reopening was necessary,” said the Met. “This includes thorough probes under Operation Hillman into breaches at Downing Street and Whitehall, which had already led to 126 fines.”
Investigation Reopened Over December 2020 Party
One notable target for reopening is the December 2020 bash on Matthew Parker Street. Initially, no fines were issued, but newly surfaced video footage has pushed the Met to revisit the case.
They’re also launching a brand-new investigation into a government event at Parliament on 8 December 2020. However, despite the ongoing scrutiny, the Met and Thames Valley Police say incidents at Downing Street and Chequers don’t meet their standards for further action.
Met Vows Transparency Amid Ongoing Probe
Both forces stressed they are committed to updating their assessments if more significant evidence emerges. The Met warned this isn’t the final word and asked the public not to jump to conclusions while investigations unfold.
“We will provide updates when appropriate to ensure transparency and maintain public trust,” the statement concluded.
