Scotland Yard urged to probe bombshell email into ‘Downing Street lockdown party’

cotland Yard was on Tuesday urged to launch an investigation into a leaked email inviting more than 100 Government staff to a “bring your own booze” party at Downing Street during the first national coronavirus lockdown.

London Assembly member Caroline Pidgeon has written to Met Police commissioner Cressida Dick asking her to probe a potential breach of Covid regulations at the gathering in the Number 10 garden on May 20 2020.

At the time rules stated people could meet one person outside of their household in an outdoor, public place if they stayed two metres apart.

But an email from the Prime Minister’s principal private secretary Martin Reynolds invited more than 100 staff to a drinks party in the garden.

About 40 people are said to have attended.

In a letter to the Met commissioner Ms Pidgeon said: “Given concerns over yet another potential breach of the regulations and laws in place at the time, I am asking that the Met investigates and looks into all new evidence that has come to light.”

It is one of several alleged rule-breaking bashes in Whitehall now being investigated servant Sue Gray.

In an email, seen by ITV News, Mr Reynolds wrote: “Hi all. After what has been an incredibly busy period we thought it would be nice to make the most of this lovely weather and have some socially distanced drinks in the No10 garden this evening.

“Please join us from 6pm and bring your own booze!”

A Met Police spokesman said the force is “in contact with the Cabinet Office” regarding the alleged party.

They added: “The Metropolitan Police is aware of widespread reporting relating to alleged breaches of the Health Protection Regulations at Downing Street on 20 May 2020.”

On Tuesday, the Prime Minister’s official spokesman confirmed Mr Reynolds “continues in his role”.

Asked whether Mr Johnson still had full confidence in one of his most senior aides, the spokesman said he did.