Sir Graham Brady responds to claims of Downing Street Christmas party

The MP for Altrincham and Sale West made a statement to The Messenger on Wednesday, the day after a video of advisor Allegra Stratton talking about a party appeared in the media and moments after Boris Johnson answered to the House of Commons at PMQs.

In the statement, Sir Graham said while he has been a staunch opponent to coronavirus restrictions, it is important to stick to them once imposed.

Sir Graham said: "I think the Covid regulations have been too intrusive and have interfered too much in people's lives all along, but it is essential that the people who make the rules for others follow the rules themselves."

During PMQs, the Prime Minister told MPs he has been assured there was no party, but has ordered an investigation into the claims nonetheless.

He also said if there is truth to the claims, 'there will be disciplinary action for all those involved'.

Sir Graham was satisfied with Mr Johnson's response, but suggested the incident showed one of the issues with imposing coronavirus restrictions.

He said: "I am glad that the Prime Minister has asked the Cabinet Secretary to investigate the story of a party in Downing Street last December, and that he has indicated breaches of the rules will be punished appropriately.

"I hope this alleged incident will help to persuade the Government it would be better to trust people to use their own judgment rather than imposing arbitrary rules."

Allegra Stratton resigned on Wednesday (Image: PA).

Later on Wednesday, Ms Stratton resigned as an advisor to Boris Johnson over the appearance of the video.

She said: "My remarks seemed to make light of the rules, rules that people were doing everything to obey.

"That was never my intention. I will regret those remarks for the rest of my days and I offer my profound apologies to all of you at home for them."