Number 10 denies that Boris Johnson broke lockdown rules at Christmas with his wife Carrie

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Downing Street has denied that Boris Johnson and his wife Carrie broke lockdown rules to keep a close friend over the Christmas period as coronavirus infections surge.

According to reports, political activist and government advisor Nimko Ali spent time with the Johnson family at No. 10 during the festive holiday period.

Just days before the planned relaxation of Covid rules for Christmas in 2020, the Prime Minister imposed level 4 restrictions across London and swathes of southeast England, forcing millions to cancel their plans.

In response to increased infection rates and a new strain of the virus, mixing between families has been banned indoors, social contact outside has been restricted to someone else, and non-essential businesses have been forced to close their doors.

Certain exceptions were made for those living in bubbles who needed to travel for education or childcare purposes, while those living alone were able to pair up with another family.

However, US magazine Harper’s raised questions for the prime minister, and reported that Ms Ali, who was given an official advisory role at the Home Office in December 2020, “spent Christmas with the couple at number 10 despite pandemic restrictions on holiday gatherings”.

But spokesperson No. 10 told The Independent: “The Prime Minister and Mrs. Johnson have followed the coronavirus rules at all times. It is absolutely incorrect to suggest otherwise.”

A separate spokesman for Johnson issued a near-identical statement, saying: “The Prime Minister and Mrs. Johnson have followed the coronavirus rules at all times. It is absolutely incorrect to suggest otherwise.”

Downing Street has not specifically denied that Ms Ali spent the holiday with the Johnson family and their young son, although it is not clear if the activist fell into one of the exceptions to the restrictions.

Responding to reports on social media, Ms Ali said she had received racist abuse since an “incorrect story” first came out, adding: “No, I didn’t break any rules but you knew that and just wanted a reason to tweet the hate.”

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