UK Editor Apologizes For Holding Party On Eve Of Prince Philip's Funeral

Boris Johnson's former aide has apologized for the "anger and hurt" caused by a Downing Street party held for his departure from the government last year while a minister said he was "shocked" by the reports, Thomas Colson reported for Business Insider.

Photo Insert: An official notice regarding the death of HRH Prince Philip posted outside the Palace of Holyroodhouse, Edinburgh, shortly after the announcement of his passing on 9 April 2021.

In new claims that put significantly more pressure on the prime minister, eyewitnesses told the Telegraph that Downing Street staff held two farewell parties on April 16, 2021, attended by around 30 people.

One of the events was held for James Slack, the prime minister's outgoing director of communications, who now serves as deputy editor-in-chief at British tabloid The Sun. In a statement issued to the Press Association, Slack said: "I wish to apologize unreservedly for the anger and hurt caused. This event should not have happened at the time that it did. I am deeply sorry, and take full responsibility."

This is the first time Slack has publicly acknowledged the event despite The Sun heavily reporting on the Downing Street scandals. Downing Street has not denied the allegations but told the Telegraph the prime minister was at his country residence when the events took place.

On Friday, Security minister Damian Hinds said he was "shocked" to read about reports of two further parties held at Downing Street. They are likely to be added to a growing list of allegations investigated by Sue Gray, who is conducting a wide-ranging inquiry into reports of multiple parties held at Downing Street and elsewhere.

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