Boris Johnson has been facing furious public backlash after footage emerged showing Downing Street seemingly preparing to address speculation about a Christmas party at Number 10 last year. Under coronavirus restrictions at the time, groups of more than six people were forbidden from meeting indoors, with the rules extending well into the Spring. The Prime Minister was confronted about the footage by an incensed Keir Starmer, who pointed out the Queen herself was unable to count on the support of her family at the funeral of Prince Philip because of the restrictions.

       Sir Keir said: "This virus isn't defeated, we're going to face other tests where the British people may be asked by their leaders to make further sacrifices for the greater good.

       "Her Majesty The Queen sat alone as she marked the passing of the man she was married to for 73 years.

       "Leadership, sacrifice, that's what gives leaders the moral authority to lead.

       "Does the Prime Minister think he has the moral authority to lead and to ask the British people to stick to the rules?"

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       Following Prince Philip's death in April 2021, the Queen had to downscale funeral plans to meet the limitations of the Covid restrictions the Government imposed to clamp down on potential clusters.

       Only 30 members of the family and friends were allowed to attend the service at St George's Chapel in Windsor, and Her Majesty was poignantly pictured sitting by herself away from her family.

       The Prime Minister replied: "Not only that but the Labour Party, and the Labour leader in particular, have played politics throughout this pandemic."

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       Mr Johnson accused Sir Keir of trying to "muddy the waters, to confuse the public and to cause needless confusion about the guidance" during the pandemic.

       Sir Keir replied: "That's so desperate and even his own side can see it."

       He also said Cabinet Secretary Simon Case had been tasked to lead an investigation "to establish all the facts and to report back as soon as possible - and it goes without saying that if those rules were broken then there will be disciplinary action for all those involved".

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       Mr Johnson added: "I understand and share the anger up and down the country at seeing No 10 staff seeming to make light of lockdown measures.

       "And I can understand how infuriating it must be to think that people who have been setting the rules have not been following the rules because I was also furious to see that clip.

       "I apologise unreservedly for the offence that it has caused up and down the country and I apologise for the impression that it gives.

       "But I repeat that I have been repeatedly assured since these allegations emerged that there was no party and that no Covid rules were broken, and that is what I have been repeatedly assured."