Boris Johnson's holiday with Evgeny Lebedev was "purely personal"

By Adam Bienkov
17 December 2012, 11:50

Boris Johnson’s Italian holiday with the owner of the Evening Standard was “purely personal” and “not in his capacity as the Mayor of London” City Hall said today.

When asked about the trip last month, a spokesperson for the Mayor insisted it was “an opportunity to relentlessly promote his vision for London.”

However, it now appears that it was just a simple jolly between good friends.

Responding to a Freedom of Information request about his two flights to Perugia, City Hall said today that:

“I can confirm that this was a private jet flight and the estimated value was £1,696.00. The flight was taken by Boris Johnson in a purely personal capacity and not in his capacity as the Mayor of London. The GLA does not hold a list of the people on the flight or the make of jet. “

The Lebedev family reportedly own a 17th century palace in the Umbrian hills.

Lebedev, who owns both the Evening Standard and the Independent provided Boris with use of the private jet and two nights accommodation.

The Mayor’s journey back from the airport was picked up by close family friend and Evening standard editor, Sarah Sands.