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Dozens of officials were said to have attended the leaving drinks for Kate Josephs.<\/p>\n
The former director general of the Government’s Covid Taskforce has this afternoon apologised for a gathering held in the run up to Christmas 2020.<\/p>\n
The party is now understood to be being looked at as part of a wider investigation into rule breaking gatherings held by the Government during the pandemic.<\/p>\n
Ms Josephs, who is now chief executive of Sheffield City Council, has said she “truly sorry” for the “anger” the drinks will have caused.<\/p>\n
She said: “As people know I previously worked in the Cabinet Office Covid Taskforce where I was Director General from July 2020 to December 18, 2020.<\/p>\n
“I have been cooperating fully with the Cabinet Office investigations and I do not want to pre-empt the findings of the investigation.<\/p>\n
“However as Chief Executive of Sheffield City Council I am responsible for leading the organisation and working with partners across the city and region to support our Covid response and recovery.<\/p>\n
“That is why I have decided to make a statement.<\/p>\n
“On the evening of 17 December, I gathered with colleagues that were at work that day, with drinks, in our office in the Cabinet Office, to mark my leaving the Civil Service.<\/p>\n
“I am truly sorry that I did this and for the anger that people will feel as a result. Sheffield has suffered greatly during this pandemic, and I apologise unreservedly.<\/p>\n
“The specific facts of this event will be considered in the context of the Cabinet Office investigation. I did not attend any events at 10 Downing Street.<\/p>\n
“I am grateful for the ongoing support of colleagues and partners and need now to ask that people allow the Cabinet Office to complete its investigation.<\/p>\n
“I will not be able to respond to any further questions until the Cabinet Office investigation is complete.”<\/p>\n
It is just the latest revelation of a series of parties alleged to have taken place at the heart of Government against coronavirus regulations.<\/p>\n