National newspaper headlines have been dominated by the ongoing reports – and denials – of a Christmas party which took place at Number 10 Downing Street last year during the Covid-19 lockdown.

As the subject has been given so much attention, the Staffordshire Local Democracy Reporting team decided to ask each of the local MPs in the county for their views on the topic of the day, and for their reflections on what consequences there should be for those involved.

Half of the MPs in Staffordshire (six out of the twelve) took the time to respond.

Michael Fabricant, MP for Lichfield, said he doesn't know any more than what's been shown on TV, and as such he declined to comment on the matter.

He did, however, post on Twitter to say: "There are always gossips in the Tea Room – me included – and there are #Remainer MPs and others who didn't like Boris from the start-off.

"I don't see any great shift in view re #Boris in the ConsParty: just frustration that a possible No10 party is drowning out the good news."

Newcastle-Under-Lyme MP Aaron Bell said in a comment on Facebook: "I didn't attend any Xmas parties at all last year. I am learning about this at the same time as all of you.

"What apparently took place at Downing St was something for the staff there, not for MPs – and (if it is as reported) was totally inappropriate – even if "within guidance" – given both the national circumstances and the sacrifices people in Newcastle and across the country made at that time.

"I have made my concerns known to the Whips and I hope there will be a much fuller explanation and apology forthcoming."

Meanwhile, Stoke-on-Trent North MP Jonathan Gullis said: "Like residents across Stoke-on-Trent North, Kidsgrove and Talke, I was sickened to see the video.

"The PM was right to call for an immediate investigation of exactly what went on.

"This investigation needs to be both thorough and swift. After so many in Stoke-on-Trent North, Kidsgrove and Talke have made sacrifices over the last 2 years, I will not tolerate a whitewash of this.

"Those responsible must be held accountable.

"For those found to have broken the rules there must be swift and appropriate punishment."

The MP for the Staffordshire Moorlands, Karen Bradley posted a statement which read: "Many of my constituents have contacted me over the last few days, shocked and disappointed about the reports that lockdown rules were breached last year at a party in Downing Street.

"I share that disappointment. I have always been proud of how Moorlanders reacted to the very many restrictions that have been imposed to help us to fight the Covid pandemic.

"I joined so many in getting vaccinated as soon as I could and then my booster more recently. We did this not just to protect ourselves but also others.

"I know the sacrifices that people made – particularly last Christmas – missing out on seeing loved ones – following the rules that they trusted had been put in place for good reason.

"I thought it went without saying that those that make the rules must abide by them. That is true of leaders and those that advise them.

"Last year my team and I held our Christmas get together virtually. Given the tightened restrictions that have been imposed following the Omicron variant, we will not get together as a team in person this year.

"If those in authority flout the rules, we will all ask why we should have faith in them. We need to find out urgently what happened so that the Government can regain the trust and goodwill of people who want to do the right thing."

Stoke-on-Trent Central MP Jo Gideon commented: "Like everyone, I spent the Christmas period in lockdown alone at home in Stoke-on-Trent, unable to see friends, family or colleagues.

"The allegations of Christmas parties in Downing Street and the video released by ITV have sparked outrage and should not go ignored especially given the sacrifices we were all making during the same period.

"I am glad that the Prime Minister has confirmed there will be an investigation and that Downing Street will cooperate fully with the Met Police.

"If rules were broken, those culpable must face consequences."

Stone MP Bill Cash said he did not attend the alleged December event – and knew nothing about it.

Speaking about Prime Minister Boris Johnson's response at Prime Minister's Questions, Sir Bill said: "I'm very glad he made a clear statement that clears the ground as far as I'm concerned.

"I think he has dealt with it properly. He agreed to a proper investigation and I think that speaks for itself.

"As far as I'm concerned what he suggested seems the right thing to do. We will wait and see what happens."

Unfortunately, at the time of writing the Local Democracy Reporting Service had not received responses from Stoke-on-Trent South MP Jack Brereton, Stafford MP Theo Clarke, Tamworth MP Christopher Pincher, Burton MP Kate Griffiths, Cannock Chase MP Amanda Milling or South Staffordshire MP Gavin Williamson.