Rishi Sunak has confirmed Tory MPs will be given a free vote on any punishment for Boris Johnson if the Privileges Committee rules against him in its partygate probe. 

The Prime Minister said he would not tell MPs how to vote on any sanction for the ex-premier because such a matter is for "individuals, rather than for Government". 

Asked if there would be a free vote, Mr Sunak told BBC Breakfast: "Yes, these are matters for Parliament and the House and MPs as individuals, rather than for Government. So that is the general process that we would follow."

The committee is investigating whether Mr Johnson misled Parliament over his partygate denials and the former prime minister is due to face a four hour evidence session on Wednesday afternoon. 

If the committee rules he did mislead the Commons, it will consider whether it was "reckless or intentional" and if it amounted to a contempt of Parliament.

The committee will publish its findings and make a recommendation on any punishment, but the ultimate decision on a sanction would fall to MPs to vote on. 

A suspension of 10 sitting days or more for Mr Johnson could ultimately trigger a by-election in his Uxbridge and South Ruislip seat. 

Mr Sunak’s comments came as Westminster waits for the committee to publish a written submission from Mr Johnson which sets out his defence to the claims that he misled MPs, which he denies. 

You can follow the latest updates below.