Boris Johnson should use public funding ‘appropriately’, says minister

Robert Jenrick says government will not restrict what former PM can say to Covid-19 inquiry

A minister has said the government will not restrict what Boris Johnson can say to the Covid-19 inquiry, but in effect issued a warning that the former prime minister should ensure he is using public funding for legal advice appropriately".

Robert Jenrick's comments on Sunday come after it was reported that Cabinet Office lawyers had told Johnson he could lose the funding if he tries to frustrate or undermine" the government's position on the inquiry. The former prime minister was informed that the money would cease to be available" if he breaks conditions such as releasing evidence without permission, according to the Sunday Times.