The Guardian view on the Gray report: a diagnosis of sick government

‘Mr Johnson is wrong if he thinks people are ready to “move on” from questions about parties.’ Photograph: Andy Rain/EPA

Of the many things Boris Johnson has told the House of Commons, perhaps the least credible of all is Wednesday’s claim to be “humbled” by Sue Gray’s report into Downing Street parties during the pandemic.

There was no humility in the subsequent debate or press conference on the topic. Mr Johnson, a practised liar, cannot even fake contrition. The Gray report describes systemic breaches of Covid regulations in Downing Street, committed knowingly and with contempt for the idea of professional government.