UK PM, Chancellor Rishi Sunak apologise over partygate fines
UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson and his Chancellor, Rishi Sunak, have confirmed that they have paid up their fines after Scotland Yard issued them fixed penalty notices for breach of COVID lockdown rules in June 2020, when they attended a birthday party for Johnson.
The British Indian finance minister offered an “unreserved apology” in a statement on April 12, soon after Johnson’s apology. The so-called partygate scandal, of around 12 parties being held at Downing Street and other UK government offices in Whitehall in breach of coronavirus legislation in place during 2020-2021, has been under police investigation as part of Operation Hillman.
“I can confirm I have received a fixed penalty notice from the Metropolitan Police with regards to a gathering held on 19th June in Downing Street,” Sunak said in his statement.
“I offer an unreserved apology. "I understand that for figures in public office, the rules must be applied stringently in order to maintain public confidence. I respect the decision that has been made and have paid the fine. I respect the decision that has been made and have paid the fine," he said.
While the Opposition has demanded the resignation of the two senior-most government officials for breaking the law with partygate, both Johnson and Sunak have insisted that they intend to get on with their jobs.
“Like the Prime Minister, I am focussed on delivering for the British people at this challenging time,” said Sunak.