‘Party Marty’ turned on disappearing messages on his WhatsApp before Covid Inquiry was announced

The Covid inquiry has entered a significant week, with evidence that is likely to give unforgiving insight into what went on in Boris Johnson’s government during the pandemic.

Among those giving evidence on Monday is Martin Reynolds, dubbed “Party Marty” after an email he wrote inviting over 100 Downing Street staff to a “bring your own booze” gathering during the first lockdown became public.

Mr Reynolds has said he could not recall why the disappearing function was activated on a No 10 WhatsApp group that included Mr Johnson before the Covid inquiry was announced.

The inquiry will also be hearing from communications chief Lee Cain on Monday, and Mr Johnson’s former chief adviser Dominic Cummings later this week.

Follow i‘s live blog for updates as they occur.