The advisor who allegedly had an affair with Matt Hancock was appointed as a non-executive director at the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) last autumn.
Images of Gina Coladangelo, 43, appearing to embrace and kiss the UK health secretary, 42, were published in The Sun newspaper this morning.
It said the pictures – which appear to have been captured from CCTV footage – were taken at the DHSC headquarters in London on the night of the local elections on May 6.
Ms Coladangelo first met Mr Hancock while studying at Oxford University together.
She has previously worked as a director at lobbying firm Luther Pendragon and is currently marketing and communications director at fashion store Oliver Bonas, which was founded by her husband Oliver Tress.
The Sun says Mr Hancock hired Ms Coladangelo as an unpaid advisor to the DHSC in March 2020 on a six-month contract and then later appointed her to the paid non-executive director role in September.
Her biography on the DHSC website reads: "Gina has over 20 years’ experience in communications and marketing, with a particular focus on healthcare, retail and the environment.
"Her experience in healthcare communications is wide-ranging, providing strategic counsel and communications support for NHS trusts, healthcare agencies, professional bodies, patient groups and charities.
"Gina is a governor of 2 Beyond Autism schools in London, independent special schools for children with autism. Previously, Gina was a Trustee of Willow, the national charity providing special days to seriously ill young adults."
She is on a taxpayer-funded salary of £15,000-a-year for her advisory role at the department, according to The Sunday Times.
A government spokesperson said the appointment had happened "in the usual way and followed correct procedure".
Ms Coladangelo is married with three children – as is Mr Hancock.
Speaking this morning, Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said that he would not be commenting on the “entirely personal” matter.
