Johnson strongly rejects allegations of lying in the “Partygate” affair

Britain’s former Prime Minister Boris Johnson has dismissed allegations that he deliberately misled parliament in the “Partygate” affair over illegal lockdown celebrations.

“I’m here to tell you hand on heart that I have not lied to the House of Commons,” Johnson told the appropriate parliamentary committee in London on Wednesday.

He again admitted that he had made false statements in the House of Commons. However, he always acted in good faith and at the time had no knowledge of the true extent of the festivities, according to the conservative politician.

At the beginning of the interrogation, which was to last several hours, Johnson swore on a Bible that he would speak only the truth. It needs to be clarified whether Johnson intentionally lied to the House of Commons. In this case, the 58-year-old risks a longer suspension, which could lead to the loss of his mandate.

The commission found no evidence it had been warned about employee rule-breaking during the coronavirus pandemic, Johnson said. On the contrary, a large number of documents show that he was assured of the legality of the events. (sda/dpa)