Shadow communities secretary Lisa Nandy said the prime minister had “clearly bided his time” since announcing his resignation, adding: “So have many of his ministers in his government.” The Labor Minister said all members of the government should “come to work” when asked what more ministers could do to help people as the country is set to record scorching temperatures over the next 48 hours. He also suggested appointing a dedicated minister to coordinate emergency responses to incidents like this. ‘Stay at home’ warning issued – UK heatwave latest updates Her comments came after Mr Johnson missed the second heatwave COBRA meeting on Saturday, which was chaired by Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster Keith Malthouse.
How to stay safe in the heat – official advice
Stay out of the sun between 11 A.M. and 3 p.m. and avoid physical exercise Drink plenty of fluids and avoid excessive alcohol Close the curtains in rooms facing the sun Never leave anyone in a parked car – and check on elderly and vulnerable neighbours Walk in the shade, apply sunscreen and wear a wide-brimmed hat Check that medicines can be stored as directed – and check that your fridges, freezers and fans are working properly A source told Sky News that Johnson held his farewell party at the prime minister’s country estate this weekend. Official invitations were made earlier this week at the event held at Chequers, the Prime Minister’s official country home, which is based in Buckinghamshire. A Tory source told Sky News: “The invitation comes from Mr and Mrs Johnson. “It’s their farewell party at Checkers this weekend. Partners and children are all invited.” Number 10 has confirmed the Prime Minister will also not attend the COBRA meeting on the heatwave on Monday, which has been declared a state of national emergency. A Number 10 source said Johnson had been in touch with relevant ministers over the weekend. Use Chrome browser for more accessible video player 1:52 Doctors’ top tips for staying calm Deputy Labor leader Angela Rayner accused Johnson of being “missed in the action again” as he “gets ready to party while Britain boils”. Ms Rayner said: “Boris Johnson has been missing in action again. He’s back to his old tricks of skipping important COBRA meetings.” But investigating Mr Johnson’s absence this morning, Mr Malthouse defended the Prime Minister and said he had dealt with the situation. “It’s my job to preside over the COBRA meetings. I briefed him yesterday morning around 8am personally.” Malthouse was then shown aerial footage of Johnson with his guests at Checkers on Sunday. He replied that it was “completely unfair” to suggest the prime minister was missing important meetings because he would be leaving the job soon. Regarding Mr Johnson’s departure, a Number 10 spokesman said: “As this is not related to government business, there is nothing to add.” The event is believed to have been private and no taxpayer money was used to fund it at the grace and grace estate. Checkers has been the official country home of British Prime Ministers since 1921 after the estate was gifted to the nation by Sir Arthur Lee. The 16th century Grade I listed mansion is owned by the Checkers Trust and has an indoor swimming pool and hundreds of acres of gardens. Johnson’s farewell party came as the Tory leadership race continues, with five MPs still in the running. They will be narrowed down to two contestants by the end of this week and will then engage in appeals over the summer before Conservative Party members vote on who will replace Johnson by September 5.
