[Asia Economy Reporter Cho Hyun-ui] British Prime Minister Boris Johnson is facing a resignation crisis over a drinking party that violated COVID-19 quarantine rules. It has been revealed that a farewell party was held at the Prime Minister's residence the day before the funeral of Prince Philip, the husband of Queen Elizabeth II.
The British daily The Telegraph reported on the 13th (local time) that "On the evening of April 16, the day before Prince Philip's funeral, two farewell parties were held at 10 Downing Street, the Prime Minister's residence in London."
About 30 people attended, and they drank alcohol past midnight and danced with music playing. At the time, quarantine rules prohibited indoor gatherings between two households living at different addresses.
The UK Prime Minister's Office indirectly acknowledged the farewell parties to the daily The Sun, saying, "It was a farewell speech given by former spokesman James Slack to colleagues before his resignation."
Another gathering was a farewell party for a photographer of the Prime Minister held in the basement of the residence. A source said, "It was a party atmosphere with loud music."
Attendees of the two farewell parties later gathered in the residence's garden and continued the party until midnight. Residence staff reportedly went to a nearby store carrying travel bags filled with alcohol.
BBC pointed out, "At the time, outdoor gatherings of more than six people were prohibited, and alcohol could only be consumed outdoors at pubs and restaurants."
Prime Minister Johnson did not attend either of the two gatherings, but calls for his resignation are growing strongly inside and outside the party. Angela Rayner, Deputy Leader of the Labour Party, criticized, "The Prime Minister is fully responsible for the culture and behavior of the Prime Minister's Office."
The Conservative Party has already started looking for a successor. Douglas Ross, leader of the Scottish Conservative Party, said, "(Johnson) will find it difficult to maintain the prime ministership," adding, "This controversy could lead to a vote of no confidence in the Prime Minister."
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