Politics

Downing Street Press Office did not deny suggestions that Boris Johnson had tried to tone down report on Priti Patel's behaviour.

“This ongoing uncertainty, coupled with the immense stress created by the pandemic, is holding back the economy, investment and British business."

“For the first time as far as I can remember we have a prime minister that doesn’t seem willing to stand up for high standards in public life.”

"There are Priti Patels in every industry. In mine they are the ones who are sweet and charming with the producers & directors and total c*nts to the runners."

Sir Alex Allen's decision comes after the Prime Minister contradicted his advice by keeping Priti Patel on as Home Secretary, despite the adviser finding her conduct “amounted to behaviour that can be described as bullying”.

"Bullying is never acceptable," the education minister said. Except, it would seem, if you're a Tory politician.

“Private companies have been allowed to secure lucrative Covid contracts to the tune of £17bn, yet ministers are not prepared to reward their own staff for all the incredible work they have done this year.?

A Government statement said Mr Johnson has “full confidence” in Ms Patel and “considers this matter now closed”.

The press conference was described as "the most dangerous 1hr 45 minutes of television in American history. And possibly the craziest."