The Metropolitan Police has launched an investigation into allegations of coronavirus rule breaking parties held at Downing Street.
Commissioner Dame Cressida Dick confirmed Scotland Yard is now investigating a "number of events" after being passed information from the Sue Gray inquiry.
Dame Cressida told the London Assembly's Police and Crime Committee: "We have a long-established and effective working relationship with the Cabinet Office, who have an investigative capability.
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"As you well know they have been carrying out an investigation over the last few weeks.
"What I can tell you this morning is that as a result of the information provided by the Cabinet Office inquiry team and, secondly, my officers' own assessment, I can confirm that the Met is now investigating a number of events that took place at Downing Street and Whitehall in the last two years in relation to potential breaches of Covid-19 regulations."
The move plunges Boris Johnson into deeper jeopardy after fresh allegations emerged that claimed staff gathered to wish him a happy birthday inside Number 10 during the first lockdown.
ITV News reports Downing Street staff "gathered briefly" in the Cabinet Room after a meeting, with claims that up to 30 people were present.
It is claimed staff joined in a chorus of "happy birthday" on June 19, 2020, when indoor social mixing was banned.
The latest allegation comes after reports of parties taking place in the Downing Street garden on May 15 and May 20, 2020.
Further gatherings are alleged to have taken place during November and December 2020, as well as on April 16, 2021 - the night before the Duke of Edinburgh's funeral.
An inquiry into parties said to have been held at Downing Street is ongoing, led by senior civil servant Sue Gray.
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