In a statement, the Metropolitan Police said it does not investigate breaches of regulations reported "long after " they are believed to have taken place. If evidence does arise, showing a breach of the regulations, the Met will review its decision, the statement read. The Met also said it is in contact with the Cabinet Office over its inquiry.

       Commenting on the Met's decision, ITV's Paul Brand said: "The Met are relying on an internal inquiry to decide for them whether a crime was committed."

       The Met's own statement read: "The MPS is aware of widespread reporting relating to alleged breaches of the Health Protections regulations at Downing Street and Department for Education on various dates and has received correspondence in relation to this reporting.

       "Throughout the pandemic the Met has followed the nation 4 Es approach of enforcing the coronavirus regulations.

       "Where live ongoing breaches of the restrictions were identified, officers engaged with those present, explained the current restrictions, encourages people to adhere to them, and only as a last resort moved to enforcement.

       "In line with the Met's policy, officers do not normally investigate breaches of coronavirus regulations when they are reported long after they are said to have taken place.

       "However, if significant evidence suggesting a breach of the regulations becomes available, officers may review and consider it.

       "The Cabinet Office is conducting an inquiry into gatherings at No10 Downing Street and the Department for Education.

       "The Met has ongoing contact with the Cabinet Office in relation to this inquiry.

       "If the inquiry identifies evidence of behaviour that is potentially a criminal offence it will be passed to the Met for further consideration."

       Senior civil servant, Sue Gray is currently compiling a report on the alleged parties held in Downing Street and Whitehall.

       While it is unclear when the inquiry will be released, Ms Gray will look into the May 15 and 20 2020 parties.

       On May 20, the Prime Minister's principal private secretary Martin Reynolds, sent an email to 100 staff inviting them to bring their own booze.

       Despite previously refusing to comment on the event, Mr Johnson apologised for the mistake.

       He said: "With hindsight, I should have sent everyone back inside.

       "I should have found some other way to thank them.

       "And I should have recognised that, even if it could be said technically to fall within the guidance, there would be millions and millions of people who simply would not see it that way."

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       There have also been separate allegations of parties or gatherings held in Downing Street on November 13 and 27.

       The Treasury has confirmed a drink events took place on November 25, 2020.

       Two other events were also held on December 10 and 14 at the Department for Education and at Conservative Campaign Headquarters (CCHQ), respectively.

       Further events, were also allegedly held on December 15, 16, 17, and 18.