Boris Johnson makes last-ditch bid to discredit Partygate inquiry

Johnson allies say they are now “very confident’ that he can prove that he did not knowingly mislead the House of Commons over what has become known as Partygate.

The former PM’s legal team intends to publish written evidence, including new witness statements, supporting his claim that he gave his honest views at the time and corrected the record when he learned of wrongdoing.

The document, overseen by his lead counsel David Pannick, is set to be published before Wednesday's five-hour hearing.

MPs will also want to know why Johnson did not return earlier and more regularly to correct the record.

The committee chair, Harriet Harman, will open the session, before Johnson is expected to make initial remarks and swear an oath of honesty.

Johnson will bring his lawyer, Lord Pannick, but he will not be able to answer questions on his behalf.