Labour’s deputy leader criticizes Boris Johnson, accusing him of being a “coward” and lacking respect for the Conservative voters who supported him in the 2019 election. This comes as Johnson dramatically quits parliament before the publication of findings from a cross-party investigation into whether he lied to the Commons.
Former Prime Minister Resigns Amid Partygate Investigation
Following the revelation of an investigation into the Partygate scandal, Boris Johnson resigns from his position as the prime minister. It is discovered that the investigation found him guilty of misleading parliament, leading to a potential lengthy suspension from the Commons.
Johnson Claims Witch-Hunt and Labels Investigation a “Kangaroo Court”
In a resentful statement, Johnson accuses the ongoing investigation of being a “witch-hunt” seeking revenge for Brexit and attempting to overturn the 2016 referendum result. He further refers to the investigation as a “kangaroo court,” expressing his discontent with the process.
Reactions to Johnson’s Resignation and Statement
Angela Rayner, Labour’s deputy leader, suggests that Johnson resigned to avoid a potential byelection in his west London constituency. She criticizes him for quitting before the publication of the investigation report. Additionally, various figures, including Chris Bryant and Will Walden, comment on Johnson’s actions and refusal to take responsibility. Keir Starmer and Angela Rayner from Labour strongly condemn Johnson, accusing him of treating the public with contempt and being a coward. Meanwhile, Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey rules out an election pact with Labour for the upcoming byelections resulting from the resignations of Johnson and Nadine Dorries.