Michael Fabricant has welcomed the Prime Minister’s Statement given at noon today.  “The question of whether or not there was a Party at Number 10 was beginning to overshadow important information on the vaccine programme, let alone the activities of Russia on the Ukraine border where British troops are based” says Michael.

In the House of Commons, Boris Johnson said:  “I understand and share the anger up and down the country at seeing No. 10 staff seeming to make light of lockdown measures? I can understand how infuriating it must be to think that the people who have been setting the rules have not been following the rules, because I was also furious to see that clip. I apologise unreservedly for the offence that it has caused up and down the country, and I apologise for the impression that it gives.

“I reiterate that I have been repeatedly assured since these allegations emerged that there was no party and that no covid rules were broken. That is what I have been repeatedly assured. But I have asked the Cabinet Secretary to establish all the facts and to report back as soon as possible.

“It goes without saying that if those rules were broken, there will be disciplinary action for all those involved.”

Michael adds “Boris has given clarity to these issues and this was long overdue.  His apology was, I know, heartfelt.  And I welcome it.

“Meanwhile, the extension of face mask wearing in most public enclosed venues including theatres and cinemas makes good sense.  And although it is controversial, I support the use of NHS Covid passes for entry into hot, steamy nightclubs and similar places.  Frankly, it’s common sense.

“I hope that in the next couple of weeks, we might find that the Omicron variant is less severe than other variants of Covid.  With it transmitting twice as fast as the delta variant, if it is weaker, it might spell the beginning of the end of the pandemic.  But it will take a fortnight or so before we know for sure how dangerous Omicron is compared to the delta and other variants.

“And with evidence published on Tuesday that 3 jabs, greatly reduce the likelihood of contracting severe or long-term Covid, I urge everyone over 40 to get their booster as soon as possible.  We have the most extensive vaccine programme in Europe and everyone should get the protection it offers.”