Sue Gray Report

Stephen Farry Excerpts

Wednesday 25th May 2022 Commons Chamber

[The Prime Minister]

I have every sympathy for Louise and all those who have suffered, but no, for the reasons I have given, I do not agree with what the hon. Gentleman has just said.

[Stephen Farry (North Down) (Alliance)]

The Prime Minister has presided over a culture of law breaking, entitlement and privilege in Downing Street. He cannot credibly plead ignorance on that point. In his statement, he sought to rationalise it by saying that the staff in Downing Street were working long, pressurised hours battling covid. What does he say to the thousands of doctors, nurses, care workers, emergency services workers, cleaners, security staff and, indeed, civil servants up and down the country who did not have alcohol-fuelled work events, parties or leaving dos?

[The Prime Minister]

I simply say to them what I have said since the pandemic began, which is that I thank them from the bottom of my heart.