10th June 2023 – (London) Former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced on Friday that he is resigning as a Member of Parliament (MP) with immediate effect. Johnson’s resignation comes in the midst of an investigation by the cross-party Committee of Privileges in the House of Commons over whether he made misleading statements to Parliament about the Partygate scandal.
Johnson stated that he received a letter from the privileges committee, indicating that they are determined to use the proceedings against him to force him out of parliament. He added that he is being forced out by a small number of people without evidence to back up their assertions, and without approval from the Conservative party members or the wider electorate.
In April last year, Johnson was fined by the Metropolitan Police for attending rule-breaking parties during the COVID-19 lockdown. He subsequently resigned as Prime Minister in July last year, following a series of scandals, including the Partygate. When revelations about the parties at Downing Street in 2020 and 2021 first emerged in late 2021, Johnson initially denied any rules had been broken. He later apologized, claiming that he mistook the parties for work events. While giving evidence to the Committee of Privileges in March, Johnson admitted to misleading Parliament but denied doing it on purpose.
Johnson’s resignation will trigger a by-election in his west London seat of Uxbridge and South Ruislip. The by-election will be an opportunity for the constituents to elect a new MP to represent them in Parliament.
Johnson’s resignation marks the end of a political career that has been characterized by numerous controversies and scandals. As Prime Minister, Johnson was criticized for his handling of Brexit, the COVID-19 pandemic, and his personal conduct. His resignation as MP is likely to intensify the scrutiny and criticism of his political legacy.
The Committee of Privileges’ investigation into Johnson’s conduct highlights the importance of accountability and transparency in politics. It is essential that MPs are held to account for their actions and are transparent in their dealings with Parliament and the public. The investigation also highlights the importance of upholding the rule of law and the integrity of Parliament.