Boris Johnson’s dad Stanley ‘sorry’ for shopping without mask in embarrassing gaffe as PM says flouters ‘will be fined’
BORIS Johnson's dad Stanley has apologised for not wearing a mask while shopping as the PM vowed to fine people who flout the rules £200.
The 80-year-old was pictured at a newsagents in West London on Tuesday, .
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The apology came after the PM vowed to fine shoppers who broke mask rules £200 after the penalty was doubled last week.
He told the nation to comply, adding: "Bear in mind that the fines are now very considerable and they will be imposed."
Stanley told The Daily Mirror when approach that he was "maybe not 100% up to speed" on the rules.
He said he had just returned from being abroad for three weeks and that the rules "may have changed" during that time.
The dad-of-six added: "I’m extremely sorry for the slip up and I would urge absolutely everybody to do everything they can to make sure they do follow the rules about masks and social distancing.
"The fact this was my first day back in the UK after three weeks abroad is, I am sure, no excuse for not knowing the rules."
But today Downing Street refused to say he should be fined.
The Prime Minister's official spokesman said: "You have heard the Prime Minister's father apologise for his mistake.
"He recognises his error and fully understands that it is vital for everyone to abide by the rules on face coverings and social-distancing.
"The PM is certainly clear that the rules apply to everyone and everybody should follow them."
In a major address in the House of Commons, the PM warned yesterday that the UK have reached a "perilous turning point" and the time to act is now.
Mr Johnson continued: "There is nothing more frustrating for the vast majority, the law-abiding majority that do comply than the sight of a few brazenly defying the rules.
"So these rules will be enforced by tighter penalties.
"The penalty for failing to wear a mask or breaking the rule of six will now double to £200 for a first offence."
He added: "We will extend the requirement to wear face masks for all people who work in retail, taxis and all private hire vehicles, and staff and customers in indoor hospitality.
"Except where seated to eat or drink."
It is not the first time the PM's father has sparked controversy during the coronavirus pandemic.
Stanley flew into Athens airport on July 1 after taking a flight to Bulgaria to get to his holiday villa.
Ex-MEP Johnson posted pictures on social media of his journey but claimed he didn’t do it out of “defiance”.
Speaking yesterday, he said: “I came here to have a quiet time, to organise the house.
“I think I’m going to go back on July 10.
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"So, I have just got one week to get everything organised.
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"Got a whole lot of instructions about how to make the place Covid proof.”
The PM’s dad revealed the Greek government had only banned direct flights from the UK - and not journeys with a stopover.
