Boris Johnson

Former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Boris Johnson has announced his immediate resignation as a Conservative Member of Parliament (MP) following an investigation into the Partygate scandal. The inquiry concluded that Johnson had misled parliament and recommended a lengthy suspension from the House of Commons. Johnson vehemently criticized the investigation, claiming it was part of a larger agenda to reverse the outcome of the 2016 Brexit referendum.

In a strongly worded statement, Johnson expressed his anger and accused the privileges committee, chaired by Labour MP Harriet Harman, of biased and unfair treatment. He stated, “I am bewildered and appalled that I can be forced out, anti-democratically, by a committee with such egregious bias.” While departing from political life, Johnson left open the possibility of a future return, stating that he was “very sad to be leaving parliament – at least for now.”

Johnson’s resignation will prompt an immediate by-election in his Uxbridge and South Ruislip constituency. This follows the earlier resignation of Nadine Dorries as MP for Mid Bedfordshire after her inclusion on Johnson’s blocked peerage list. The Labour Party sees both seats as potentially winnable.

The timing of Johnson’s resignation coincided with Chancellor Rishi Sunak’s clearance of a resignation honours list, which included over 40 peerages and rewards for close allies associated with the Partygate scandal. The list drew criticism from Labour and the Liberal Democrats, who condemned it as “rewards for rule-breakers” and “corruption pure and simple.”

Although the privileges committee’s report is expected to be published in the coming weeks, Johnson’s resignation diminishes its impact as he is no longer a sitting MP. The committee, comprised of Tory, Labour, and SNP members, is believed to have recommended a suspension of more than 10 days, potentially triggering a recall petition and by-election in Johnson’s constituency.

In his resignation statement, Johnson aimed sharp criticism at Sunak’s government and certain Conservative MPs. He questioned the impartiality of systems in place and expressed disappointment in the government’s failure to capitalize on Brexit, rising taxes, and a lack of conservative principles. Johnson emphasized the need for the party to regain momentum and demonstrate a pro-growth agenda, including tax cuts and a focus on housing, EU directives, and animal welfare.

Speculation had arisen regarding Johnson seeking a safer parliamentary seat ahead of the next election due to the potential threat from Labour in his current constituency of Uxbridge. However, any move would require approval from Sunak and Conservative officials.