Sky News television anchor Kay Burley has received a six-month suspension (with pay) after being caught breaking the COVID lockdown rules she herself had been covering for the network.
According to the BBC, Burley and nine othersâwhich included two other Sky News employees who have also been suspended for three monthsâmet in London for Burleyâs 60th birthday. They ate at two restaurants, including one after the 11pm curfew, and moved to a private residence where people from at least three separate households were gathered.
On Thursday Burley tweeted a statement saying: âI have today agreed with Sky News to step back from my broadcasting role for a period of reflection. Itâs clear to me that we are all in the fight against Covid-19 and that we all have a duty to stick firmly by the rules. It doesnât matter that I thought I was Covid-compliant on a recent social event. The fact is I was wrong. I made a big mistake, and I am sorry.â
The statement continues: âSome dear friends and colleaguesâsome of the most talented and committed professionals in our businessâhave been pulled into this episode and I regret this enormously. I was one of the founding presenters on Sky News. No one is prouder of our channelâs reputation, the professionals on our team, and the impact we make. I very much look forward to being able to continue my 32 year career with Sky when I return.â
Hello everyone,
News about me. Thanks for all your kind wishes. pic.twitter.com/6LDNVB9Cnsâ Kay Burley (@KayBurley) December 10, 2020
Burley left England Friday for a pre-booked African safari trip.
According to Breitbart, Londonâs restrictions as of now include banning socialization outside of oneâs household and limiting any outdoor socialization to six people.