Breaking news has emerged this morning. Boris Johnson is to resign as Conservative leader and Prime Minister today. This comes after over 50 resignations from the government within a matter of days, including Chancellor Rishi Sunak and Health Secretary Sajid Javid.
Boris Johnson will continue to serve as Prime Minster until the autumn. This is to allow time for a new Conservative party leader to be voted for to take his place. The newly appointed Chancellor, Nadhim Zahawi, who was announced to take over from Rishi Sunak just days ago, has told Johnson he must “go now”. Former Health Secretary Matt Hancock has also urged the PM to resign, suggesting his departure is “inevitable”.
Just today, New Education Secretary Michelle Donelan and Northern Ireland Secretary Brandon Lewis have also resigned. This is adding to the already mounting pressure on Boris Johnson. Other Minister Helen Whately, George Freeman, Chris Philp, Damian Hinds, Guy Opperman and James Cartlidge have stepped down also. This huge wave of resignations is historic, something we will remember for years to come.
Despite Priti Patel, the Home Secretary and Transport Secretary Grant Shapps also telling Johnson to go, the PM has been defying calls to step down for many months. He suggests his 2019 election win is a reason to stay.
Last night (6th July), it was announced Michael Gove had been sacked by the Prime Minister after Mr Gove urged Johnson to step down.
Despite the uproar caused and disruption to government, it appeared Johnson was standing firmly in his position. That is, until this morning, when it was announced Boris Johnson is set to resign as Prime Minister after all.
Keep checking back for more updates.
