MP backs Boris after row over partygate fines
But says he ‘understands anger and frustration’ of public
MACCLESFIELD’S MP has backed under-fire Boris Johnson as criticism of the Prime Minister’s ‘shameful’ behaviour mounts – even from within his own party.
David Rutley says the Conservative leader has his support as he works on recovery plans from the pandemic and helping Ukraine following its invasion by Russia.
But Mr Rutley admits he can ‘understand the anger and frustration’ directed towards the Prime Minister.
It comes after Boris Johnson apologised for breaking lockdown rules with drinks parties and was fined £50 following the police investigation into ‘Partygate’.
Chancellor Rishi Sunak has also paid a £50 fine.
Reacting to the news Mr Rutley said: “The Prime Minister and the Chancellor have both rightly given a full and unreserved apology after receiving a fixed penalty notice.
“Recognising the difficult sacrifices made by so many individuals and families during the pandemic, I understand the anger and frustration that many people will feel.
“I also have concerns about this incident in Downing Street. As the Prime Minister has said, ‘people had a right to expect better’.
“With a war now raging in Ukraine and the risk of wider escalation in Europe, now is not the time to hold a leadership election within the Conservative Party.
“The Prime Minister is redoubling his efforts to deliver on the government’s recovery plans after the pandemic and is continuing to actively assist the people of Ukraine.
“He has my support in these vital tasks.”
While other Conservative MPs have also pulled back from demanding Mr Johnson resign, given the war in Ukraine, many have been scathing of him.
Another Cheshire Tory MP, Edward Timpson, from Eddisbury, said many people made sacrifices during the Covid pandemic.
He said: “I am appalled that we did not see that selflessness at the heart of government. Those setting the regulations-leaders-should lead by example. That did not happen in these cases.
“I find that shameful - as do my party colleagueseven if the fines only carry the same legal weight as a parking ticket.
Mr Timpson said he hoped his response showed that ‘backbench, constituency MPs like me are not prepared to defend the indefensible’.
The Prime Minister says he ‘ humbly accepts’ he breached Covid rules, although he didn’t realise he had at the time.
He apologised and said he has paid the fine, while Rishi Sunak has also offered an ‘unreserved apology’.
Some Conservative MPs, such as Nigel Mills, for Amber Valley, and Caroline Nokes, for Romsey and Southampton North, maintain that Boris Johnson should resign.