Dig deeper：Partygate - a political scandal
【明報專訊】British Prime Minister Boris Johnson(約翰遜) faced investigation and criticism regarding the parties he held at government buildings, his office and residence. The scandal is also known as ''partygate''(派對門).
It began when Boris Johnson was reported to participate or host a party in the garden of Downing Street in May 2020, during the time when gatherings of more than two people were prohibited in outdoor public places. More photos and information are revealed. He was subsequently found to be engaged in several events that violated the gathering restrictions.
An initial report was published by the end of January 2022. A more detailed report will be released after the police have finished thorough investigations on the incident. Let's take a closer look at the initial report.
◆How many gatherings are there?
16 gatherings were reported in the initial finding, including gatherings on the departure of officers, Christmas gatherings and the gathering for his birthday. Some people are found to be drinking a large amount of alcohol.
◆What are the findings or conclusions?
Sue Gray(Second Permanent Secretary to Cabinet Office) described that some of the behavior surrounding these gatherings were difficult to justify, in times of the Government requiring citizens to accept far-reaching restrictions on their lives. Excessive consumption of alcohol was also inappropriate in a professional workplace. Gray contended that not much conclusion could be reached before the police had finished the investigation, but she also noted that significant learning should be drawn from these events which must be addressed immediately across the Government.
■ Gear up
The report released by Sue Gray in January 2022 is not the final concluding report. (True/ False)
(Answer on next text)
■Glossary
investigation (n) 調查
scandal (n) 醜聞
prohibit (v) 禁止
inappropriate (adj) 不合適的
(Criticisms on this publication, if any, are aimed at pointing out the errors or defects of certain systems or policies with a view of rectifying or eradicating such errors or defects, as well as prompting improvement or remedy for them via lawful means. There is absolutely no intention of inciting hatred, discontent or hostility towards the government or other classes of the community.)
[Smarties' Power English 第338期]
