Police launch probe into lockdown ‘party’ allegedly held by Partygate inquisitor

The Metropolitan Police have opened an investigation into an alleged lock-down breaching party claimed to have been held by Partygate inquisitor Bernard Jenkin.  In a statement, the force said: “The Met and Thames Valley Police have assessed new material in relation to potential breaches of Covid Regulations in 2020 and 2021. “The Met will be opening one investigation and re-opening a previous investigation.” It added: “Following assessment of material relating to a gathering in Parliament, the Met is opening an investigation into potential breaches of the Regulations at an event on 8 December 2020.” The police have also reopened an investigation into an event that was held at Matthew Parker Street on 14 December 2020. Sir Bernard was one of the inquisitors on the Privileges Committee, investigating whether or not former Prime Minister Boris Johnson misled Parliament over Partygate.  Earlier this week, MP Virginia Crosbie apologised for attending an event in Parliament while Covid restrictions were still in place in December 2020. Mr Johnson lashed out at the Privileges Committee ahead of its damning report into his conduct, accusing Sir Bernard of ‘monstrous hypocrisy’ for allegedly attending the event with his wife. In a statement, Ms Crobsie has said: ‘The invitation for this event was not sent out by me. I attended the event briefly, I did not drink and I did not celebrate my birthday. I went home shortly after to be with my family. Bernard Jenkin sat on the Privileges Committee (Image: Getty) ‘I apologise unreservedly for a momentary error of judgment in attending the event.’ Responding to the police probe, Sir Bernard said: “It is not appropriate to comment on a continuing investigation.” UPDATES TO FOLLOW…