There seems to have been several "gatherings" over the last 22 months - leaving dos, working drinkies in the garden, Xmas parties, etc.
30+ folk attended the alleged BYOB party. ~100 were apparently invited. Quite possibly 100+ attended one or more events. 250+ may have been invited to one or more. Everybody (500++) in the "No 10 estate" must have known they were happening.
Boris is is ultimately responsible for setting the tone - in more normal times making the workplace a fun and sociable place to be can be good for both morale and effectiveness.
Why has it taken so long for anyone to own up. Politicians and advisors would be very aware of the negative impacts on public opinion. Junior staff could be concerned for their jobs.
But very senior officials condoned, organised and even encouraged the behaviours. They should be expected to have the resolve to step in when necessary. They are not elected, have secure jobs and are rewarded with comfortable pensions and the occasional gong.
The public should expect far better from them. The fall out from this needs to be more than the replacement of Boris (if it happens), but a radical review of the role and conditions enjoyed by senior public servants so they are also properly held to account.
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