Alexander Boris de Pfeffel Johnson (born 19 June 1964) is a British politician and writer who served as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom and Leader of the Conservative Party from 2019 to 2022. He previously held the position of Foreign Secretary from 2016 to 2018 and was Mayor of London from 2008 to 2016. Johnson represented Henley as a Member of Parliament (MP) from 2001 to 2008 and Uxbridge and South Ruislip from 2015 to 2023.
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| Prime Minister of the United Kingdom | |
| In office 24 July 2019 – 6 September 2022 | |
| Monarch | Elizabeth II |
| Deputy | Dominic Raab |
| Preceded by | Theresa May |
| Succeeded by | Liz Truss |
| Leader of the Conservative Party | |
| In office 23 July 2019 – 5 September 2022 | |
| Preceded by | Theresa May |
| Succeeded by | Liz Truss |
| Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs | |
| In office 13 July 2016 – 9 July 2018 | |
| Prime Minister | Theresa May |
| Preceded by | Philip Hammond |
| Succeeded by | Jeremy Hunt |
| Mayor of London | |
| In office 3 May 2008 – 9 May 2016 | |
| Deputy |
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| Preceded by | Ken Livingstone |
| Succeeded by | Sadiq Khan |
| Member of Parliament for Uxbridge and South Ruislip | |
| In office 7 May 2015 – 12 June 2023 | |
| Preceded by | John Randall |
| Succeeded by | Steve Tuckwell |
| Member of Parliament for Henley | |
| In office 7 June 2001 – 4 June 2008 | |
| Preceded by | Michael Heseltine |
| Succeeded by | John Howell |
| Shadow Cabinet portfolios | |
| 2004 | Arts |
| 2005–2007 | Higher Education |
| Personal details | |
| Born | Alexander Boris de Pfeffel Johnson
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| Citizenship |
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| Political party | Conservative |
| Spouses | (1987–1993) Marina Wheeler (m. 1993; div. 2020) Carrie Symonds (m. 2021) |
| Parents |
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| Relatives | Johnson family |
| Residence | Brightwell Manor |
| Education |
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| Occupation |
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Educated at Eton College and Balliol College, Oxford, where he was president of the Oxford Union in 1986, Johnson began his career in journalism in 1989 with The Daily Telegraph. He went on to serve as editor of The Spectator from 1999 to 2005. Johnson's political career began in earnest in 2001 when he joined Michael Howard’s Shadow Cabinet, though he was dismissed over a scandal involving an extramarital affair. After Howard's resignation, he returned to the Shadow Cabinet under David Cameron. In 2008, he was elected Mayor of London, resigning from Parliament to focus on his mayoral duties. He was re-elected as mayor in 2012 but chose not to run for a third term in 2016. In 2015, Johnson returned to Parliament, becoming MP for Uxbridge and South Ruislip.
A prominent advocate for Brexit during the 2016 referendum, Johnson’s political trajectory saw him appointed Foreign Secretary by Prime Minister Theresa May in 2016. However, he resigned from the role in 2018, criticizing May’s handling of Brexit, particularly the Chequers Agreement. Johnson succeeded May as prime minister in 2019, re-opening Brexit negotiations with the European Union and securing a revised withdrawal deal. Despite challenges, including a prorogation of Parliament deemed unlawful by the Supreme Court, Johnson called a snap general election in December 2019, which resulted in a decisive Conservative victory.
Under his leadership, the government responded to the COVID-19 pandemic with various emergency measures and launched an accelerated vaccination programme, one of the fastest in the world. Johnson also oversaw the UK’s response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, imposing sanctions on Russia and providing aid to Ukraine. However, his tenure was marred by the Partygate scandal, which revealed that numerous social gatherings had taken place at 10 Downing Street during COVID-19 lockdowns. Johnson was fined for breaching lockdown laws in April 2022.
The publication of the Sue Gray report in May 2022 and mounting dissatisfaction with his leadership led to a vote of confidence among Conservative MPs in June, which Johnson won. However, in July 2022, revelations regarding his handling of sexual misconduct allegations against Chris Pincher, his deputy chief whip, triggered a mass resignation of ministers, culminating in Johnson announcing his resignation as prime minister. He was succeeded by Liz Truss, his foreign secretary.
Johnson remained in the House of Commons as a backbencher until June 2023, when a Privileges Committee investigation found that he had misled Parliament on several occasions. In response, Johnson resigned as an MP that same day.
A highly controversial figure, Johnson has been praised by supporters for his charisma, wit, and ability to connect with voters, as well as for delivering Brexit and successfully overseeing the COVID-19 vaccination effort. However, he has also faced intense criticism for his perceived dishonesty, elitism, and handling of scandals. Historians and biographers regard his premiership as one of the most scandal-plagued in modern British political history.
Early Life and Education
Alexander Boris de Pfeffel Johnson was born on 19 June 1964 in Manhattan, New York City, to Stanley Johnson, an economics student at Columbia University, and Charlotte Fawcett, an artist whose father, Sir James Fawcett, was a prominent barrister and former president of the European Commission of Human Rights. Johnson is one of only two British prime ministers to have held American citizenship. His parents returned to the UK in 1964, with Charlotte moving to Oxford to continue her studies. The family initially settled in Summertown, Oxford, and had their second child, Rachel, in 1965.
The family moved to Crouch End, London, in 1965, and later to Washington, DC, in 1966, where Stanley worked for the World Bank. They eventually relocated to Norwalk, Connecticut, in 1967, where a third child, Leo, was born. After a few years in the US, the family returned to the UK in 1969 and settled at West Nethercote Farm, Somerset, on Stanley’s family property. Johnson's father was frequently absent, leaving him to be mainly raised by his mother, aided by au pairs.
As a child, Johnson was quiet and studious, but he faced hearing challenges that required multiple surgeries. He and his siblings were encouraged to engage in intellectual pursuits, and Johnson’s early ambition was to be “world king.” The siblings became especially close, as Johnson had few other friends during his youth.
In the early 1970s, the family moved to Maida Vale, London, where Stanley conducted post-graduate research at the London School of Economics. In 1973, the family relocated to Uccle, Brussels, where Johnson attended the European School and became fluent in French. After his mother suffered a nervous breakdown, Johnson and his siblings returned to the UK in 1975, enrolling at Ashdown House, a preparatory boarding school in East Sussex. There, Johnson developed a passion for rugby, Latin, and Ancient Greek. His parents divorced in 1980, with Charlotte settling in Notting Hill, London, and the children spending much of their time with her.
Eton and Oxford: 1977–1987
Johnson’s academic journey began with a King’s Scholarship to study at Eton College, where he arrived in 1977. There, he adopted his middle name, Boris, and became known for his "eccentric English persona." Despite reports highlighting his idleness, complacency, and tardiness, he was a popular figure at Eton. His friends were primarily from the upper class, with Darius Guppy and Charles Spencer being among his closest. Johnson excelled in English and Classics, earning prizes in both subjects. He also served as the secretary of the school debating society and the editor of the school newspaper. In late 1981, he was selected to join Pop, an elite group of school prefects.
After completing his time at Eton, Johnson took a gap year to Australia, where he taught English and Latin at Timbertop, a campus of Geelong Grammar School. Following this, he secured a scholarship to study Literae humaniores (Classics) at Balliol College, Oxford, beginning in 1983. This course, focused on ancient languages, literature, history, and philosophy, formed the foundation of Johnson’s future interests in politics and media. His time at Oxford was marked by his involvement in rugby, where he played as a tighthead prop, and his membership in the infamous Bullingdon Club, a society known for its wild behavior and vandalism. Johnson later expressed regret for his membership in the club, particularly after a photograph featuring him and David Cameron in formal Bullingdon attire attracted negative attention.
During his time at Oxford, Johnson began a relationship with Allegra Mostyn-Owen, a cover model for Tatler and daughter of Christie's Education chairman William Mostyn-Owen, and they became engaged. Johnson was well known at Oxford, where he and Guppy edited the university's satirical magazine, Tributary. In 1984, he was elected secretary of the Oxford Union, though his campaign for president in 1985 was unsuccessful. He ran for president again in 1986 and won, but his tenure was largely unremarkable, with some questioning his competence and seriousness. Johnson graduated with an upper second-class degree, though he was dissatisfied with not receiving a first.
Early Career
The Times and The Daily Telegraph: 1987–1994
In 1987, Johnson married Allegra Mostyn-Owen, and they settled in West Kensington, London. Later that year, he began working as a graduate trainee at The Times through family connections. However, his time there ended in scandal when he fabricated a quote from historian Colin Lucas for an article on the discovery of Edward II's palace. After the editor discovered the deception, Johnson was dismissed.
Johnson then joined The Daily Telegraph, where his articles, often aimed at the Conservative-leaning "Middle England" readership, gained attention. His distinct, literary style, full of old-fashioned phrasing and a tendency to refer to his audience as "my friends," became well-known. In 1989, he moved to the paper's Brussels bureau to cover the European Commission. A strong Eurosceptic, Johnson gained a reputation for writing about what became known as "euromyths," such as absurd claims about Brussels regulating the size of vacuum cleaners or dictating the curvature of bananas. His articles criticized the European Union, helping to foster a more prominent Eurosceptic movement in Britain.
His writings, however, were controversial, with critics accusing him of spreading misinformation to discredit the EU. Conservative politician Chris Patten accused him of engaging in "fake journalism." Meanwhile, Johnson’s stance on issues like banning handguns after the Dunblane massacre attracted attention for its provocative nature.
In 1990, Johnson's marriage to Allegra ended, and by 1993, he married Marina Wheeler. The couple had children and moved to Islington, London, where Johnson’s views began shifting towards more liberal stances on issues like climate change and LGBT rights, influenced by Wheeler's own perspectives. During this time, he also wrote The Perils of the Pushy Parents: A Cautionary Tale, a book about overbearing parents in the UK education system, which received mixed reviews.
Political Columnist: 1994–1999
Back in London, Johnson was promoted to assistant editor and chief political columnist at The Daily Telegraph. His writing received acclaim for being ideologically diverse, earning him the Commentator of the Year Award at the What the Papers Say awards. However, some of his columns, especially those containing racially insensitive language and controversial views, sparked criticism.
Johnson's political ambitions began to take shape when he expressed a desire to run as a Conservative candidate in the 1994 European Parliament elections. Although he was unable to secure a seat, he focused on gaining a place in the House of Commons, eventually becoming the Conservative candidate for Clwyd South in the 1997 general election. Despite a strong campaign, he lost to the Labour candidate.
In 1995, Johnson found himself embroiled in a scandal when a recording of a conversation with friend Darius Guppy was released. Guppy had discussed his involvement in insurance fraud and asked Johnson to provide a journalist's private address so he could have him beaten. Although Johnson claimed he never followed through on the request, the incident tarnished his reputation.
Johnson's writing continued at The Spectator, where his columns were often considered rushed. He also contributed to GQ, reviewing cars, a position that earned him frustration from staff due to his tardiness and frequent parking fines. Despite these challenges, Johnson's fame grew, particularly after his 1998 appearance on the satirical BBC show Have I Got News for You. This exposure led to increased public recognition, invitations to other TV shows, and eventually a wider media presence.
Becoming an MP
Following the retirement of Michael Heseltine, Johnson decided to stand as the Conservative candidate for the safe seat of Henley, Oxfordshire, in the 2001 general election. Despite some local members of the Conservative Party being divided over his candidacy—some enjoyed his charisma, while others disapproved of his perceived flippancy—his fame from television appearances helped him secure the seat. He won the election and bought both a farmhouse in Henley and a home in Islington, maintaining connections to both areas. Johnson engaged in local campaigns, including efforts to prevent the closure of the Townlands Hospital and to support the local air ambulance service.
However, Johnson's time in Parliament was marked by inconsistent attendance and lackluster speeches. He served on a committee assessing the Proceeds of Crime Bill but missed many meetings. His parliamentary contributions were often seen as lacking depth, though his liberal stances on some issues, like supporting the Gender Recognition Act 2004 and the repeal of Section 28, made him stand out. Johnson also supported the controversial Iraq War, initially backing the government's plans to join the U.S. invasion. In 2003, he visited Baghdad to observe the situation, but later described the war as "a colossal mistake."
Despite controversies, Johnson remained editor of The Spectator, where he continued his career in journalism. He also wrote books and columns for The Daily Telegraph and GQ. His book, Friends, Voters, Countrymen, recounted his election campaign, and his 2003 book Lend Me Your Ears collected previous columns. In 2004, his first novel, Seventy-Two Virgins: A Comedy of Errors, was published.
In 2004, Johnson's personal life became the subject of scandal when his affair with The Spectator columnist Petronella Wyatt was revealed. The affair, which led to two abortions, resulted in Johnson's dismissal from his role as Conservative vice-chairman and shadow arts minister by Michael Howard. Despite this, Johnson remained a prominent figure in the Conservative Party and in media.
Second Term
Johnson was re-elected as the MP for Henley in the 2005 general election. As Conservative leader, David Cameron appointed him as shadow higher education minister. Johnson supported Labour's proposed top-up fees for universities, which led to friction with some in his party. He also campaigned for the role of Rector of the University of Edinburgh, but his position on top-up fees hurt his campaign, and he came third.
In 2006, his personal life made headlines again when the News of the World reported an affair with journalist Anna Fazackerley, though Johnson did not publicly comment on the allegations. Later, he hired Fazackerley to work for him. Johnson's remarks comparing the Conservative Party's leadership turmoil to cannibalism in Papua New Guinea led to protests from the country's High Commission.
During this period, Johnson was dismissed as editor of The Spectator and took on a new role at The Daily Telegraph, negotiating a salary increase. He also became involved in television, presenting the popular history program The Dream of Rome and later publishing a book based on the show. In 2007, Johnson earned £540,000, making him one of the highest-earning MPs that year.
Mayor of London (2008–2016)
Mayoral Election: 2007–2008
In September 2007, Boris Johnson was selected as the Conservative candidate for Mayor of London after a public primary. His campaign focused on issues like reducing youth crime, enhancing public transport safety, and replacing the city's articulated buses with an updated version of the classic AEC Routemaster. Targeting outer London, Johnson capitalized on the perception that the Labour mayoralty had neglected these areas. His charismatic personality was a central part of his appeal, with voters often saying they supported him because he was “a laugh.” Labour’s incumbent mayor, Ken Livingstone, portrayed Johnson as an out-of-touch elitist.
In the 2008 election, Johnson won with 43% of first-preference votes, defeating Livingstone, who received 37%. After securing victory, Johnson announced he would step down as the MP for Henley.
First Term: 2008–2012
After assuming office, Johnson made several changes to City Hall, notably firing employees associated with Livingstone’s administration. He appointed Tim Parker as deputy mayor but dismissed him later due to his increasing influence. Johnson continued his Daily Telegraph column, earning an additional £250,000 annually, which led to controversy. He promised to donate 20% of this salary to charity, though he ultimately did not follow through.
During his first term, Johnson was involved in several scandals, including accusations of having an affair with Helen Macintyre and fathering her child. He was also criticized for his cronyism, particularly for appointing Veronica Wadley as chair of London's Arts Council. In the parliamentary expenses scandal, Johnson was accused of excessive taxi claims. Despite these issues, he maintained a strong celebrity status and popularity in London.
Policies
Johnson's administration continued several projects initiated by his predecessor, such as Crossrail and the 2012 Olympics, although he faced accusations of trying to claim credit for them. He introduced the public bicycle scheme known as "Boris Bikes," which was financially unsuccessful but popular with the public. His administration also developed the New Routemaster buses, ordered the construction of a cable car system over the Thames, and banned drinking alcohol on public transport. Johnson pledged to retain Tube ticket offices, but this decision was reversed by Transport for London in 2013, with all offices closing by 2015. Public transport fares were increased by 50% to help finance various projects.
Though Johnson presented himself as moving leftward on some issues, supporting the London Living Wage and endorsing an amnesty for illegal migrants, his support of cycling initiatives was criticized by some as insufficient for improving road safety for cyclists.
Relations with Police, Finance, and Media
Johnson’s handling of the 2011 London riots was criticized, and he faced ongoing challenges with the media. He appointed himself as chair of the Metropolitan Police Authority and played a role in the resignation of Metropolitan Police Commissioner Ian Blair. Despite his support for the police, his claim that youth crime had decreased was later proven false. Johnson also championed the financial sector, denouncing “banker bashing” following the financial crisis, and played down the anti-capitalist Occupy London movement.
Johnson maintained close relationships with the media, leading to favorable press coverage throughout his term. He was largely supportive of media mogul Rupert Murdoch during the phone hacking scandal, which contributed to his image as a pro-business figure.
Re-election Campaign: 2012
Johnson ran for re-election in 2012, once again hiring campaign strategist Lynton Crosby. His campaign focused on contrasting his own record with that of his main opponent, Ken Livingstone, who was accused of tax evasion. Johnson’s campaign emphasized his leadership on crime and the economy, while Livingstone's campaign struggled to present a compelling alternative vision. Johnson was re-elected as Mayor of London for a second term.
Second Term as Mayor of London (2012–2016)
During his second term as Mayor of London, Boris Johnson focused on several key initiatives, most notably the successful hosting of the 2012 Summer Olympics. As co-chair of the bid, Johnson contributed to the successful delivery of the event and worked to improve London’s infrastructure, including enhancements to public transportation. This included extending the operating hours of the London Underground and replacing staffed ticket offices with automated systems. However, his tenure was also marked by controversy.
Controversies
One of the major controversies during this time involved Johnson’s personal relationship with businesswoman Jennifer Arcuri, whose company received government grants and access to trade missions. In 2019, an investigation by the Independent Office for Police Conduct concluded that Johnson had failed to declare his relationship, but no criminal charges were filed. The investigation suggested that his failure to declare the relationship could have breached the London Assembly's code of conduct.
Brexit Campaign (2015–2016)
Johnson played a prominent role in the 2016 Brexit referendum, endorsing the "Leave" campaign. His comments during the campaign sparked controversy, particularly when he suggested that President Obama’s "ancestral dislike" of Britain influenced his views. Johnson was also criticized for misleading statements about Turkey's potential accession to the EU, which led to concerns about immigration. Despite these criticisms, Johnson’s prominent role in the Brexit campaign helped cement his political future.
Foreign Secretary (2016–2018)
After the Brexit vote, Johnson was appointed Foreign Secretary under Prime Minister Theresa May. His tenure was criticized for several diplomatic missteps, including comments that alienated foreign leaders and led to tensions with key allies. Notably, Johnson’s remarks about the British-Iranian detainee Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe were widely condemned. He also attracted criticism for his stance on Saudi Arabia and his comments on Russia.
Resignation and Return to Backbenches (2018–2019)
In 2018, Johnson resigned as Foreign Secretary over disagreements with Theresa May’s handling of Brexit. He returned to the backbenches, where he became a vocal critic of the government's Brexit strategy. Johnson’s dissatisfaction with May’s approach set the stage for his bid to become Conservative Party leader in 2019.
2019 Conservative Party Leadership Election
Johnson launched his leadership campaign in June 2019, emphasizing a hard Brexit and pledging to leave the EU by the end of October. He won the leadership race with overwhelming support, securing 66% of the vote, and became Prime Minister shortly thereafter.
Premiership (2019–2022)
First Term (July–December 2019)
On 24 July 2019, Boris Johnson became the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom after Theresa May resigned. He was appointed by Queen Elizabeth II and became the first prime minister to be born outside British territories. Johnson’s first term was largely dominated by Brexit, and his approach was marked by his promise to leave the European Union by 31 October 2019, with or without a deal.
Brexit Policy
Johnson’s major aim was to renegotiate the Brexit Withdrawal Agreement, particularly focusing on removing the Irish backstop. The EU initially rejected this condition, but after talks resumed in late August, Johnson was able to reach an agreement with the EU that replaced the backstop with the Northern Ireland Protocol. On 28 August 2019, Johnson controversially requested that the Queen prorogue Parliament to limit the time in which MPs could block a no-deal Brexit. The prorogation was later ruled unlawful by the UK Supreme Court in September 2019.
Cabinet Appointments
Johnson reshuffled his Cabinet upon taking office, dismissing 11 senior ministers and accepting the resignation of several others. Key appointments included Dominic Raab as Foreign Secretary, Sajid Javid as Chancellor of the Exchequer, and Priti Patel as Home Secretary.
Loss of Working Majority
Johnson's government faced internal dissent, with several Conservative MPs defying the party line on Brexit. On 3 September 2019, MP Phillip Lee crossed the floor to the Liberal Democrats, and 21 Conservative MPs were expelled from the party after they voted against the government on Brexit. The political tensions continued, culminating in Johnson calling for a general election, which eventually took place on 12 December 2019.
2019 General Election
In the general election, the Conservative Party won a resounding victory, securing 43.6% of the vote and a parliamentary majority of 80 seats. The slogan "Get Brexit Done" was central to the campaign, and the election result was seen as a mandate for Johnson’s Brexit plans.
Second Term (December 2019 – September 2022)
Second Cabinet
Following the election victory, Johnson reshuffled his Cabinet again in February 2020, with key changes including the resignation of Chancellor Sajid Javid and the appointment of Rishi Sunak in his place. The reshuffle also saw the dismissal of several ministers, including Northern Ireland Secretary Julian Smith. Johnson's second term was also marked by handling the COVID-19 pandemic.
COVID-19 Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic posed a significant challenge to Johnson's government. Critics argued that his initial response to the crisis was slow, with the UK being among the last major European countries to implement lockdown measures. Johnson himself contracted COVID-19 in March 2020 and was hospitalized in early April, spending several days in intensive care. The government’s handling of the pandemic, particularly regarding testing and contact tracing, faced widespread criticism.
During this period, Johnson’s political advisor, Dominic Cummings, sparked controversy when it was revealed that he had traveled to Durham during the lockdown, despite exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms. Johnson's defense of Cummings, despite public outrage, further eroded trust in the government’s handling of the pandemic.
Despite the criticisms, the UK launched a mass COVID-19 vaccination program in December 2020. The vaccination rollout was seen as a success, with a significant portion of the population vaccinated by early 2021. Johnson faced further public backlash in 2021 after reports emerged about parties and gatherings held at 10 Downing Street during lockdowns, leading to a scandal known as "Partygate."
International Relations and G7
During his second term, Johnson strengthened relations with the United States, particularly under the leadership of President Joe Biden. In June 2021, he hosted the G7 summit in Cornwall, where he played a prominent role in discussions on the global COVID-19 response and climate change.
Overall, Johnson's premiership was marked by significant political and social challenges, with his handling of Brexit, the pandemic, and internal Conservative Party divisions shaping his leadership
The Partygate Scandal
The Partygate scandal involved allegations that members of the UK government and Conservative Party staff, including Prime Minister Boris Johnson, attended social gatherings in Downing Street during the COVID-19 lockdown in 2020, violating their own regulations. It emerged in December 2021, when reports revealed gatherings ahead of Christmas 2020 and a leaked video of staff joking about a "fictional party."
Initial Denials and Apologies
Boris Johnson initially denied the allegations, but as further evidence emerged, including a leaked email inviting staff to a party in May 2020, he admitted to attending a gathering, calling it a "work event." However, this admission came under intense scrutiny, and Johnson apologized to MPs in January 2022 for attending the event in the Downing Street garden.
Investigations and Fallout
In January 2022, the Metropolitan Police launched an investigation into the parties. Johnson was fined by the police in April 2022, becoming the first sitting prime minister in UK history to be sanctioned for breaking the law while in office. This sparked calls for his resignation from MPs across the political spectrum.
Calls for Resignation and Loss of Support
As the scandal unfolded, pressure on Johnson intensified. Several ministers, including Chancellor Rishi Sunak and Health Secretary Sajid Javid, resigned. Johnson survived a vote of confidence in June 2022, but his leadership was increasingly questioned following the Conservative Party's heavy defeats in by-elections.
The Final Blow: Resignation Announcement
On 7 July 2022, after a wave of resignations within his government, Johnson announced his resignation as prime minister. Despite initially pledging to stay, the political crisis caused by Partygate led to his departure from office.
Impact on Leadership and Legacy
The Partygate scandal severely undermined Johnson’s credibility and authority. His involvement in misleading the public and his mishandling of the situation prompted his eventual resignation. Liz Truss succeeded him as Conservative Party leader in September 2022, marking the end of Johnson’s turbulent premiership.
Starmer Slur Controversy
In addition to Partygate, Johnson was involved in another controversy when he falsely blamed Labour leader Keir Starmer for the non-prosecution of serial sex offender Jimmy Savile. Johnson later conceded that Starmer had no involvement in the decision not to prosecute Savile.
Vote of Confidence and Political Turmoil
In June 2022, despite surviving a vote of confidence, Johnson's leadership was further questioned after disastrous by-election results. Many Conservatives, including former leaders, publicly called for his resignation, signaling a lack of faith in his ability to lead.
Pincher Scandal and Mass Resignations
The Chris Pincher scandal further damaged Johnson’s leadership. Allegations of sexual misconduct against Deputy Chief Whip Chris Pincher led to multiple resignations from key figures within Johnson’s government, increasing calls for him to step down. By July 2022, the mass resignation of ministers led to Johnson’s eventual departure.
Environmental Policies
Amid these scandals, Johnson continued to promote his government's environmental policies. In November 2020, he announced a 10-point plan for a "green industrial revolution," including a commitment to end the sale of petrol and diesel vehicles by 2030 and dramatically expand offshore wind power. However, his government faced criticism for not taking stronger action on climate change, especially regarding domestic air travel and tax cuts that could impact environmental efforts.
Foreign Policy Under Boris Johnson
European Union–Mercosur Free Trade Agreement and US-UK Relations
Johnson’s government strongly supported the European Union–Mercosur Free Trade Agreement, which aimed to create one of the world's largest free trade areas. Maintaining a strong relationship with the United States, known as the "Special Relationship," was a priority for Johnson, as seen in his interactions with US President Donald Trump during the G7 summit in 2019.
In 2022, Johnson introduced a controversial asylum deal, where individuals entering the UK illegally would be sent to Rwanda. This move aimed to curb illegal immigration but was met with both domestic and international criticism.
Relations with China and Hong Kong
Johnson's approach to China was initially positive, with statements in 2019 about being "pro-China" and supporting the Belt and Road Initiative. However, the relationship became strained in 2020 due to China's imposition of the Hong Kong national security law. In response, the UK offered British National (Overseas) passport holders and other eligible Hong Kong residents the opportunity to move to the UK.
Johnson avoided labeling China’s treatment of Uyghurs as "genocide," despite the US using the term, though he described the situation as "utterly abhorrent." His government also joined the AUKUS defense pact in 2021, a security alliance between the UK, the US, and Australia, which was opposed by China.
Afghanistan and the US Withdrawal
In July 2021, as the US began its withdrawal from Afghanistan, Johnson expressed concerns about the future of the country. Following the Taliban's takeover of Kabul, Johnson blamed the US for the crisis, highlighting NATO's dependence on American military capabilities for its operations in Afghanistan.
UK–EU Trade Negotiations and Post-Brexit Relations
After the UK’s withdrawal from the EU in January 2020, Johnson’s government engaged in trade negotiations with the EU, focusing on issues like fisheries. By December 2020, the EU–UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement was reached, but tensions persisted, especially regarding the Northern Ireland Protocol. In 2022, Johnson's government proposed unilateral changes to the Protocol, but the EU rejected these, citing potential breaches of the agreement.
Russia and Ukraine
As tensions escalated between Russia and Ukraine in 2021, Johnson warned the EU about the implications of the Nord Stream 2 pipeline and the need to support Ukraine. Prior to Russia’s invasion, Johnson visited Kyiv to offer diplomatic support, condemning Russia’s aggressive actions.
When Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, Johnson swiftly condemned the invasion, imposing sanctions on Russian banks and oligarchs. The UK also pledged to phase out Russian oil by the end of 2022. Johnson’s strong stance in support of Ukraine earned him praise, both for his military aid to Ukraine and his advocacy for continued anti-Russian sanctions.
In April 2022, Johnson visited Kyiv and met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, promising further military aid. He continued to criticize Russia, and by May 2022, he became the first world leader to address the Ukrainian Parliament virtually, pledging additional support. Johnson remained firm in his belief that a ceasefire would be a mistake, warning that it would lead to a frozen conflict.
Conclusion
Johnson's foreign policy was characterized by strong support for key allies, such as the US and Ukraine, while navigating challenging issues with China and the EU. His legacy in foreign policy is marked by his response to Russia’s aggression towards Ukraine and his handling of post-Brexit trade relations, though his government faced criticism for some controversial decisions, including the Rwanda asylum deal.
Post-premiership (2022–present)
After stepping down as Prime Minister in 2022, Boris Johnson returned to his role as a backbench MP. Following the death of Queen Elizabeth II, he participated in the Accession Council for King Charles III. In October 2022, after Liz Truss's resignation, Johnson received enough nominations to stand in the leadership race but ultimately chose not to.
Controversies and Resignation from Parliament
In May 2023, Johnson was referred to the police regarding potential breaches of COVID regulations. His office criticized the allegations, calling them politically motivated. In June 2023, the release of his resignation honours list caused a public feud with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, and Johnson resigned as an MP in response to a committee report accusing him of misleading Parliament over the "Partygate" scandal.
Media Career
In June 2023, Johnson became a columnist for the Daily Mail, although he was found to have breached appointment rules by failing to seek proper advice beforehand. Later that year, he joined GB News as a commentator and programme maker for the next general election and U.S. presidential election.
Support for Israel and International Visits
Johnson was outspoken on various international issues. He condemned Hamas' attack on Israel in 2023, stating that there was no moral equivalence between Hamas' terrorism and the actions of the Israeli Defense Forces. He also rejected calls for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip during the Israel–Hamas war and criticized pro-Palestinian protests in the UK. In November 2023, Johnson visited Israel to express solidarity with the country.
2024 General Election and Memoir Release
In 2024, Johnson campaigned for the Conservative Party in the general election, which resulted in a landslide loss to the Labour Party. Johnson's memoir, Unleashed, was released in October 2024.
Political Ideology
Johnson's political ideology has been described as flexible and populist. He has shifted between liberal and conservative stances throughout his career. Early in his political life, he was seen as a proponent of small-state liberalism and social liberalism. However, during his premiership, Johnson embraced nationalist and anti-establishment rhetoric, particularly through his support for Brexit. He has been compared to other populist leaders like Donald Trump and Viktor Orban, though his views on issues like free trade and immigration remain more liberal.
Environmental Views
Johnson's environmental stance evolved over time. Initially skeptical about climate change, he became more supportive of climate action during his time as Prime Minister. He expressed a commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 and supported efforts to mitigate climate change through renewable energy transitions and carbon capture technologies.
Immigration and the European Union
Boris Johnson's views on immigration and the European Union evolved over time. He initially expressed support for the EU, even stating in 2003, "I am not by any means an ultra-Eurosceptic." However, by 2009, he began advocating for a referendum on Britain's EU membership. During the Brexit negotiations, Johnson called for Britain to leave the Single Market and adopt a more liberal approach to immigration than then-Prime Minister Theresa May. He argued that EU membership suppressed British wages and threatened the nation's sovereignty by pushing for a "superstate." Johnson became a prominent figure in the campaign for the UK to leave the EU, and in 2019, he was a staunch advocate of a no-deal Brexit. In a letter to the EU in August 2019, he demanded the removal of the "backstop" in the withdrawal agreement, which was ultimately rejected. Johnson also stated that the UK would not pay the £39 billion for the withdrawal deal if leaving without an agreement.
Unionism and Devolution
Johnson is a "fervent and passionate unionist," and although he proposed the construction of an Irish Sea Bridge to connect Northern Ireland with Great Britain, he later abandoned the idea. The UK's devolved administrations criticized the Internal Market Bill for centralizing control over commerce, which was seen as undermining devolution.
Public Image
Johnson has a reputation for being a divisive and controversial figure in British politics. While he is admired by supporters for his wit, charm, and humor, he has faced accusations of dishonesty and misleading statements throughout his career. His persona as a light-hearted, often chaotic figure contrasts with a more serious and controversial private side. Johnson's premiership has been described as one of the most scandal-ridden in recent history, comparable to that of David Lloyd George.
Personal Life
Boris Johnson was born in New York City to British parents, holding dual British-American citizenship until he renounced it in 2016. He is fluent in several languages, including French, Italian, German, Spanish, Latin, and Ancient Greek. His personal life has been marked by various relationships and family dynamics. Johnson has four children with his first wife Marina Wheeler and another daughter with arts consultant Helen Macintyre. He fathered additional children with Jennifer Arcuri and his current partner, Carrie Symonds, whom he married in 2021.
Religion
Johnson was baptised as a Catholic but later confirmed in the Church of England. He has described his faith as fluctuating and does not consider himself a devout Christian. Johnson has expressed admiration for secular humanism and views it as a philosophy influenced by classical Greece and Rome. His religious beliefs have sometimes been described as eclectic, with an appreciation for Christian ethics but also a connection to pre-Christian philosophies.
Relationships
Boris Johnson has had several high-profile relationships. He married Allegra Mostyn-Owen in 1987, but the marriage ended in divorce in 1993. Shortly after, he married Marina Wheeler, and they had four children together. Johnson also had affairs during his marriage, including with Petronella Wyatt and Anna Fazackerley. He later fathered a child with Helen Macintyre. In 2019, Johnson began a relationship with Carrie Symonds, and the couple married in 2021. They have three children.
Family and Ancestors
Johnson is the eldest of four children born to Stanley Johnson and Charlotte Johnson Wahl. His paternal ancestry includes Turkish, German, French, and English roots, while his maternal lineage is connected to Russian Jewish heritage. Johnson has described himself as a "one-man melting pot" due to his diverse background.
Honours
Boris Johnson has received several honours during his career, including an honorary degree from Brunel University and an honorary fellowship from the Royal Institute of British Architects. He was named Honorary Australian of the Year in the UK in 2014 and received various international honours, including the Order of Liberty from Ukraine and honorary citizenships from Odesa and Kyiv in recognition of his support during the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
References
- (No date) The Guardian. Available at: https://www.theguardian.com/politics/boris-johnson (Accessed: 14 January 2025).
- Boris Johnson (2025) Encyclopædia Britannica. Available at: https://www.britannica.com/biography/Boris-Johnson (Accessed: 14 January 2025).
- Boris Johnson (no date) Daily Mail Online. Available at: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/boris_johnson/index.html (Accessed: 14 January 2025).
- Kottasová, I. et al. (2022) Boris Johnson fined by police over lockdown-breaking parties at UK Government premises, CNN. Available at: https://edition.cnn.com/2022/04/12/uk/boris-johnson-uk-pm-coronavirus-fine-intl-gbr/index.html (Accessed: 14 January 2025).
- Rt.. hon. Boris Johnson (2024) Canada Strong & Free Network. Available at: https://canadastrongandfree.network/speakers/boris-johnson/ (Accessed: 14 January 2025).
