Minister Denies Party Allegations: "It Would Have Been Public Knowledge"

Spain's Government Spokesperson Denies Allegations of Party at Teruel Parador Hotel A Senate committee is investigating claims of a party held at a Parador hotel in Teruel, Spain, allegedly involving former Transport Minister José Luis Ábalos. The event reportedly took place in September 2020. Government spokesperson Pilar Alegría, who was also staying at the hotel that night, testified before the committee and strongly denied the allegations. "If there had been a party as some claim, everyone in Teruel would have known about it immediately," Alegría stated during her testimony. She emphasized the small size of Teruel and the likelihood of any significant event becoming public knowledge quickly. The PP, which holds an absolute majority in the Senate, called Alegría to testify. Alegría pointed out that members of both the National and regional police forces were also present at the Parador that night, providing security for both her and Minister Ábalos. The committee continues its investigation to determine the truth of the matter. The investigation could shed light on the conduct of government officials and potentially lead to further reforms in transparency and accountability.