Simon Case denies telling Boris Johnson Covid rules were always followed

Top civil servant also says he is unaware of anyone else in Downing Street giving Johnson such assurance over Partygate

The cabinet secretary, Simon Case, has denied giving Boris Johnson any reassurances that Covid rules and guidance were followed at all times in No 10 during the Partygate scandal.

In newly released evidence from the Commons privileges committee, which is investigating whether the former prime minister deliberately misled MPs over lockdown gatherings, the head of the UK’s home civil service said he was unaware of any one else in Downing Street giving assurances either.