Boris Johnson was condemned for 'breaking his own rules' on social distancing by reminding the public that meetings of more than 30 people are illegal shortly after speaking to a packed meeting of Tory MPs in the Commons.
The Prime Minister addressed colleagues on Wednesday with at least 50 MPs squeezed into a room sign-posted as having a Covid-19 limit of 29 people.
Johnson even told those present that he wanted people to be packed together in the same way by Christmas.
Only 40 minutes later, the Prime Minister's official Twitter account posted: "Gatherings of more than 30 people are illegal. Breaking the rules could cost you thousands."
The message added: "If you attend an illegal gathering, you could be fined £100, increasing on each offence up to £3,200."
Liberal Democrats accused the Prime Minister of "hypocrisy" and demanded an investigation.
In a letter to Commons Leader Jacob Rees-Mogg, North East Fife MP Wendy Chamberlain said: "We are seeking your assurance that a full investigation will be made into the event and if these reports are true, any evidence of criminal activity will be passed on to the relevant Police Services."
According to the Bloomberg news agency some MPs at the meeting observed social-distancing rules by taking seats that were spaced out, but later arrivals "crammed" together at the back of the room to hear Johnson.
The PM's official spokesman repeatedly refused to answer questions on the issue today.
The spokesman added: "The Prime Minister abides by the social distancing rules that are in place."
