Ex-UK PM Boris Johnson admits he misled parliament over Covid-19 lockdown parties

The former leader, however, rejected the accusation he had deliberately lied to the House

A committee has been investigating statements Johnson made to parliament in 2021 about parties at his office when coronavirus laws banned indoor gatherings

2-MIN READ2-MIN

Former British prime minister Boris Johnson walks home after his morning run, in London, on March 21. Photo: Reuters

Published: 9:50pm, 21 Mar 2023Updated: 10:22pm, 21 Mar 2023

Former British prime minister Boris Johnson has told a parliamentary inquiry there was no evidence he intentionally misled lawmakers about illegal parties held at his office during Covid-19 lockdowns.

Parliament’s Committee of Privileges has been investigating statements Johnson, who was ousted from Downing Street last September, made to parliament in December 2021.

It is considering whether he intentionally set out to mislead lawmakers about illegal gatherings that took place in Downing Street offices and residence, some of which he attended himself, when he said no rules were broken and Covid-19 guidance had been followed.

In his 52-page evidence document submitted to the committee, Johnson said he accepted the House of Commons had been misled by his statements but rejected the accusation he had deliberately lied to parliament.

“It is clear from that investigation that there is no evidence at all that supports an allegation that I intentionally or recklessly misled the House,” Johnson said.

“There is not a single document that indicates that I received any warning or advice that any event broke or may have broken the Rules or Guidance.”

The committee is due to question the former leader in person when he provides oral evidence in a televised session on Wednesday.