Totnes MP Anthony Mangnall is looking for answers over an alleged Christmas party or parties at Downing Street last year during the lockdown.

Anthony Magnall told us: “I entered politics because I believe in public service and value truth, honesty and the need for all elected officials not just to follow the law but to be lead the way in upholding it.

Unfortunately, it appears something happened in Number 10 last year. I do not know what but I am eagerly awaiting the details to be released through the investigation conducted by the Permanent Secretary, Simon Case. At no point should anyone in No 10 have been breaking the lockdown rules.

To give it a personal context I spent most of last year going between Westminster and my Devon home. That said, I stuck to the rules. But over the year my father’s long term partner died, he, in turn, was taken seriously ill, my nephew was born and I spent Christmas alone. I was not able to grieve, care, rejoice or celebrate with my family because of the rules that I (on the large part) voted for. So you can well understand how I feel about the recent news around the No 10 debacle. I am angry and disappointed. 

It is right the Prime Minister apologised and that an investigation has been announced. That inquiry must come swiftly and answers must be given.”

It has been announced that the investigation will be widened to look at reports of a separate get together at Number 10 in November and a festive event at the Department for Education.