PM Johnson Faces Commons Wrath as Investigation Cleared Without Vote
The Commons didn’t even need to vote on launching an investigation into Boris Johnson – the motion passed without a single objection.
But the debate was brutal for the PM. Tory MPs seized the chance to call for his resignation amid the partygate chaos.
Investigation Delayed Until Sue Gray Report Release
The probe won’t kick off immediately. The motion clearly states the investigation begins only after the Sue Gray report lands – and that’s still on hold until the Metropolitan Police wrap up their own inquiry and hand out fixed penalty notices.
Johnson has faced relentless calls to quit over the scandal and apologised to MPs this week, showing a rare hint of contrition.
Ministers Defend Johnson, Claim ‘Good Faith’ Comments
Cabinet Office Minister Michael Ellis backed Johnson, insisting the PM didn’t mislead the Commons. Instead, Johnson spoke about partygate “in good faith”.
“He has always been clear he is happy to face whatever inquiries Parliament sees fit,” Ellis said. “He has responded to the event for which he has received a fixed-penalty notice.”
Ellis added Johnson didn’t think the event broke COVID rules at the time but has since apologised, paid his fine, and accepted the police findings.
“There is a difference between a deliberate and an inadvertent situation and I think most people would accept that,” he said.
PM Vows to Lead Conservatives Despite More Possible Fines
In an ITV interview, Johnson insisted he’s “determined” to lead the Conservatives into the next general election – despite many expecting more police fines.
The PM is believed to have attended six of the 12 events under investigation by Scotland Yard.
The motion points to at least four Commons remarks by Johnson that “appear to amount to misleading the House”.
Johnson said the partygate saga has dragged on “for quite a long time” and that politics shouldn’t be consumed by it. Yet, he admitted the need for an investigation.
“I want all the facts to be out there,” Johnson declared, adding partygate shouldn’t “crowd out everything else”.
