Confidence must be restored in parliament according to MP for Warwick and Leamington Matt Western.

The Labour MP backed a landmark decision in the House of Commons yesterday to open an investigation into whether the prime minister lied about parties held at Number 10.

Whilst Boris Johnson stated he has "absolutely nothing, frankly, to hide" he will now be investigated by the Parliamentary Privileges Committee to confirm whether or not he broke the ministerial code.

And local Mr Western said it was the job of the investigation and the government to get the public back on side.

"In referring this to the committee of privileges it is vital, and I really hope that there will be great support on the far side, because it is essential for everyone of us that we restore public confidence in this place, and that is why of course I will be voting for this motion," he said in an address to the House of Commons yesterday.

Parliament voted in favour of the partygate prope yesterday (Image by Tony Kershaw SWNS)

Adding: "The government claimed that the prime minister was under exceptional pressure, well I think we can say that about all the frontline services, all those people working in our healthcare, teachers and across the piece working to keep us safe.

"I am sure many people here would not have celebrated their birthdays, did not have parties, they did not have office parties.

"I certainly didn't and I don't believe the prime minister should have at all.

"The defences that are being used to defend the prime minister are not really worthy of this place or the those that espouse them. 'Ambushed by cake', 'a work event not a party', or the 'comparison to a speeding ticket' - this is really all indefensible stuff."

This latest investigation has been triggered by the PM's £50 fine from the police for attending his 56th birthday party in June 2020.

At the time lockdown rules prevented such gatherings.

The Labour led motion has called on the committee to investigate whether Mr Johnson's comments on the parties had: "amounted to a contempt of the House."

Taking to Twitter Mr Western added: "Deep down his MPs know he must go.

"They should have voted for him to be investigated.

"For the good of our nation, now is the time for integrity."

(Header image via parliament.uk)