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Boris Johnson referred to police over new lockdown rulebreaking claims

Papers from Covid era show friends visited Chequers during lockdown

Boris Johnson has been referred to police by the Cabinet Office over new claims he broke lockdown rules after his ministerial diary revealed visits by friends to Chequers during the pandemic.

The Cabinet Office has passed concerns to the Metropolitan Police and Thames Valley police after several visits to the prime minister’s grace and favour residence were highlighted during preparations for a public inquiry into the pandemic.

The privileges committee, which is investigating claims that Johnson misled parliament over lockdown-breaking parties, has been informed. Johnson was made aware of the concerns last week and has since written to the Cabinet Office denying rulebreaking.

The development will intensify pressure on Johnson, who is already fighting for his political future. The privileges committee is due to report back next month and if it recommends suspending the prime minister for more than 10 days he could face a by-election.

https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/b...ends-0h0msqnld