Conservative MP for Montgomeryshire Craig Williams has welcomed the Prime Minister’s apology but says “much needs to be done by Number 10 to rebuild trust with the public”.
He said: “I however want to see change now, and I hope that the Prime Minister will immediately begin the process of much-needed reform within Number 10.”
Boris Johnson apologised to MPs on Monday (January 31) after senior official Sue Gray found “failures of leadership and judgment” as gatherings in Downing Street and parts of Whitehall were held under coronavirus restrictions in 2020 and 2021.
The report said there were 12 events held at around that time that are currently being investigated by the police.
Responding to Sue Gray’s update, Brecon and Radnorshire MS James Evans said he is “focusing on his role in the Senedd” and would not comment on the report.
Fay Jones MP, Brecon and Radnorshire Conservatives and the Montgomeryshire Conservative Association have been approached for comment.
Welsh Liberal Democrat Leader Jane Dodds MS described the ‘update’ as “hugely disappointing” and has called for Mr Johnson to resign.
“Everyone knows Boris Johnson broke the rules and then lied to the country. It’s time Welsh Conservative Members of Parliament stood by their duty to their constituents and stood up for decency by sacking Boris Johnson. He must go before he does our country any more harm.”
Craig Williams’ statement
“I welcome the full apology from the Prime Minister and more importantly his commitment to fixing the system by which Number 10 is managed, to create greater accountability and to streamline how the top of our Government is run. I share in the deep frustrations felt by many, and I recognise that much needs to be done by Number 10 to rebuild trust with the public. This is a first step in the right direction.
“Whilst clearly the independent inquiry by Sue Gray will help establish the truth into what has taken place and cultural issues within Downing Street, the announcement by the Metropolitan Police that they are now carrying out a live investigation adds further delay to the full details of the report being released. I therefore welcome the Prime Minister’s commitment to ensuring that the report will be updated accordingly and published in full once the Police have concluded their investigations.
“I however want to see change now, and I hope that the Prime Minister will immediately begin the process of much-needed reform within Number 10. I will be ensuring that the changes which have been promised to the House of Commons are enacted by continuing to pass on the views of my constituents to the Prime Minister and the Cabinet.
“As always, I continue to work for Montgomeryshire’s residents, helping them with any issues and challenges they face and raising their concerns directly with Government ministers. Those who wish to contact me about any issue which affects them, or who wish to know my view, are always welcome to contact me.”
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