Boris Johnson plans to present written evidence to lawmakers in an attempt to clear his name for allegedly defrauding Congress in the Partygate scandal.
The former Prime Minister submits a statement to the Privileges Committee as he fights to save his political career.
Johnson will appear before a panel on Wednesday for a grueling televised questioning and will provide written evidence by then.
In its interim report, the Privileges Committee said the evidence strongly suggested that for Johnson, the coronavirus rule violations at No 10 should have been “obvious.”
They look at evidence on at least four occasions that he may have deliberately misled members of Congress in assuring Commons that the rules would be followed.
Johnson’s allies said they would provide the committee with a “detailed and persuasive” explanation showing that Johnson “does not deliberately mislead the House.”
Sunday Times He points to a series of previously unpublished WhatsApp messages from senior civil servants and members of his No 10 team, showing that he relied on their advice when making statements in Congress. ing.
He also publishes a message that indicates other Downing Street officials believed the rally was covered by the “workplace exemption” of the lockdown rules.
The Commission’s inquiry is chaired by Labor’s Harriet Harman, but the seven-member strong Commission is dominated by Tories.
The committee will publish its findings as to whether Mr Johnson has insulted Congress and make recommendations for any punishment, but the final decision rests with the House as a whole.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said he would not try to influence lawmakers on the committee, suggesting he would give Conservative MPs a free vote on any sanctions that might be recommended.
Asked if he was concerned that a suspension of more than 10 days could trigger by-elections for Mr Johnson’s Uxbridge and South Ruislip seats, Snack said: “This is a matter for Congress and It’s a matter for the House, it’s not right for the government to get involved.”
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