Premiership of Boris Johnson

This article is about Boris Johnson's tenure as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. For the people in his ministries, seeFirst Johnson ministryandSecond Johnson ministry.

Boris Johnson's tenure asPrime Minister of the United Kingdombegan on 24 July 2019 when he accepted an invitation of QueenElizabeth IIto form a government, succeedingTheresa May,and ended on 6 September 2022 upon his resignation. Johnson's premiership was dominated byBrexit,theCOVID-19 pandemic,theRussian invasion of Ukraine,and thecost of living crisis.As prime minister, Johnson also served simultaneously asFirst Lord of the Treasury,Minister for the Civil Service,Minister for the Union,andLeader of the Conservative Party.

Official portrait, 2019
Premiership of Boris Johnson 24 July 2019 – 6 September 2022
Monarch	Elizabeth II
Cabinet	First Johnson ministry Second Johnson ministry
Party	Conservative
Election	2019
Seat	10 Downing Street
Coat of Arms of HM Government

Johnson defeatedJeremy Huntin the2019 Conservative Party leadership electionon 23 July 2019, and was appointed prime minister the following day. Here-opened Brexit negotiationswith the European Union and in early September heprorogued Parliament;theSupreme Courtlater ruled the prorogation to have been unlawful. After agreeing to a revised Brexit withdrawal agreement butfailing to win parliamentary support,Johnson called asnap general electionto be held in December 2019, which the Conservative Party won. During Johnson's premiership, the governmentrespondedto theCOVID-19 pandemicby introducing variousemergency powersto mitigate its impact and approved anationwide vaccination programme.He also responded to theRussian invasion of Ukraineby imposingsanctions on Russiaand authorisingforeign aid and weapons shipmentsto Ukraine.

In thePartygatescandal it was found that numerous parties had been held at10 Downing Streetduringnational COVID-19 lockdowns,and COVID-19 social distancing laws were breached by 83 individuals, including Johnson, who in April 2022 was issued with afixed penalty notice.The publishing of theSue Gray reportin May 2022 and a widespread sense of dissatisfaction led in June 2022 to avote of confidence in his leadershipamongst Conservative MPs, which he won. In July 2022, revelations over hisappointment of Chris Pincheras deputychief whip of the partywhile knowing of allegations of sexual misconduct against him led to amass resignation of members of his governmentand to Johnson announcing his resignation as prime minister. Following theJuly–September 2022 Conservative Party leadership election,Johnson was succeeded as prime minister byLiz Truss,his foreign secretary.

Johnson is seen by many as acontroversial figurein British politics.His supporters have praised him for being humorous, witty, and entertaining,with an appeal reaching beyond traditional Conservative Party voters, making him, in their view, an electoral asset to the party.Conversely, his critics have accused him of lying,elitism,cronyismandbigotry.As prime minister, his supporters praised him for "getting Brexit done",overseeing the UK's COVID-19 vaccination programme, which was amongst the fastest in the world, and being one of the first world leaders to offerhumanitarian support to Ukrainefollowing the Russian invasion of the country.Within Ukraine, Johnson is praised by many as a supporter of anti-Russian sanctions and military aid for Ukraine.His tenure also saw several controversies and scandals, and is viewed as the most scandalous premiership of modern times by historians and biographers alike.

Conservative leadership bid

Main article:2019 Conservative Party leadership election

Theresa May,after failing to pass herBrexit withdrawal agreementthrough parliament three times, announced her resignation as prime minister on 24 May 2019 amidst calls for her to be ousted.Boris Johnson(a key person in theVote Leavecampaign who hadservedas theMayor of Londonand had alsoservedasForeign Secretary) had already confirmed at a business event in Manchester days earlier that he would run forConservative Partyleader if May were to resign.

Johnson giving his first speech as prime minister at10 Downing Street,24 July 2019

Prior to his state visit to the United Kingdom, US PresidentDonald Trumpendorsed Johnson for party leader in an interview withThe Sun,opining that he thought Johnson "would do a very good job."In theConservative Party leadership election,Johnson won all five rounds of voting by MPs,and entered the final vote by Conservative Party members as the clear favourite to be elected.On 23 July, he emerged victorious over his rivalJeremy Huntwith 92,153 votes, 66.4% of the total ballot, while Hunt received 46,656 votes.These results were announced during an event in theQueen Elizabeth II CentreinWestminster.

In his first speech as prime minister, Johnson paid tribute to his predecessorTheresa May,and said "No one in the last few centuries has succeeded in betting against the pluck and nerve and ambition of this country. They will not succeed today. We in this government will work flat out to give this country the leadership it deserves, and that work begins now."

First term (July – December 2019)

Initial appointments

Main article:First Johnson ministry

Johnson chairing the first meeting of his cabinet.

On the day of his announcement as prime minister, Johnson handed the role ofChief Whipto "relative unknown" MPMark Spencer.

Andrew Griffith,an executive at the media conglomerateSky Group,was appointed chief business adviser to 10 Downing Street.Munira Mirza,who was a deputy mayor for Johnson throughout his mayoralty ofLondon,was appointed director of theNumber 10 Policy Unit.Dominic Cummings,former chief of theVote Leavecampaign, was appointed in to a role as a senior advisor to Johnson.

Johnson dismissed 11 senior ministers and accepted the resignation of 6 others.The mass dismissal was the most extensive post-Second World WarCabinet reorganisation without a change in the ruling party.

Johnson's key cabinet appointments wereSajid JavidasChancellor of the Exchequer,Dominic RaabasForeign SecretaryandFirst Secretary of State,andPriti PatelasHome Secretary.Entering cabinet for the first time wereBen Wallace,Robert Jenrick,James Cleverly,Rishi Sunak,andRobert Buckland.

Johnson increased the number of ministers attending the Cabinet to 33, four more than had attended theMay Cabinet.One quarter of those appointed were women, and the Cabinet set a record for ethnic minority representation, with four secretaries of state and two additional ministers coming from minority backgrounds.Johnson also created a new ministerial role to be held by himself,Minister for the Union,fulfilling a campaign pledge he had made in the leadership election.

Spending plans

Shortly after he had become prime minister, Johnson's government announced increased public sector spending. In particular, it was announced that an extra 20,000 police officers would be hired, the roll-out of high-speed broadband would be sped up, the funding per school pupil would be increased to a minimum of £5,000 and £1.8 billion for upgrades and new equipment at hospitals. £1 billion of the money for hospitals was money that NHS providers had saved over the past three years and then previously been told they could not spend, rather than being new money.

First 100 days

On 24 July 2019, Johnson entered10 Downing Streetfor the first time as prime minister.He used his first speech to promise that aBrexitdeal would be struck within 99 days, and that Britain would leave theEuropean Union(EU) by 31 October 2019, "no ifs or buts".

Johnson focused on strengthening the Union within his first few days in office, creating aMinister for the Unionposition and visiting Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. He gaveNorthern PowerhouseministerJake Berrya right to attend cabinet.On 27 July, Johnson gave a speech at theScience and Industry MuseuminManchesterwhere he promised to build a high-speed rail route connecting the city toLeeds.

Johnson with US PresidentDonald Trumpat theG7 summit in Biarritzin August 2019

Johnson's first overseas trip as prime minister was a visit to Berlin to meetGerman ChancellorAngela Merkelon 21 August 2019. He visited France to hold meetings withFrench PresidentEmmanuel Macronthe next day. From 24 to 26 August he attended his first multilateral meeting with world leaders as prime minister, when he travelled toBiarritzfor the45th G7 summit.

Johnson with President of the European CommissionJean-Claude Junckerin Luxembourg, September 2019

Prorogation of parliament

Main article:2019 British prorogation controversy

On 28 August 2019, Johnson advisedQueen Elizabeth IItoprorogue parliamentbetween 12 September 2019 and 14 October 2019, which was given ceremonial approval by the Queen at aPrivy Councilmeeting.The prorogation spurred requests for ajudicial reviewof the advice given by Johnson as the order itself, underroyal prerogativepowers, cannot be challenged in court.As of 29 August, three court proceedings had been lodged, and one European legal proceeding had begun:

• In theCourt of Session,Edinburgh, for breach of theNorthern Ireland (Executive Formation etc) Act 2019and theEuropean Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018,by 75 MPs led byJoanna Cherry;
• In theHigh Court of Justice,Westminster, for an urgentjudicial reviewon the legality of the use of theroyal prerogative,byGina Miller;
• In theHigh Court, Northern Ireland,for breach of theGood Friday Agreement,byRaymond McCord;
• In theEuropean Parliament,for breach of Article 2 of theTreaty on European Union,under the process outlined underArticle 7 of the Treaty on European Union.

On 24 September 2019 theSupreme Court of the United Kingdom foundthat Johnson's attempt to prorogue Parliament for five weeks "had the effect of frustrating or preventing the constitutional role of Parliament in holding the government to account", that the matter wasjusticiable,and therefore that the attempted prorogation was unlawful.It accordingly declared that the prorogation was voidab initio.Parliament returned the following day and the record was made to show that Parliament was not in fact prorogued but rather "adjourned".On 2 October 2019, Johnson announced his plans to prorogue Parliament on 8 October and hold a newState Opening of Parliamenton 14 October.

Loss of working majority, Conservative MPs and ministerial resignations

On 29 August 2019, Johnson suffered the first ministerial resignation of his premiership, whenLord Young of Cookhamresigned as a government whip in theHouse of Lords.

On 3 September 2019,Phillip Leecrossed the floorand defected to theLiberal Democratsfollowing disagreement with Johnson's Brexit policy. This left the government with noworking majorityin the House of Commons.Later that day, 21 Conservative MPs – including former ChancellorsKenneth ClarkeandPhilip Hammond,andNicholas Soames– hadthe party whip withdrawnfor defying party orders and supporting theBenn Act,an opposition motion requiring the government to act to stop ano-deal Brexitif Parliament has not backed a deal by 19 October.Johnson saw his working majority reduced from 1 to minus 43.

On 5 September 2019, Johnson's brotherJo Johnsonresigned from the government and announced that he would step down as an MP, describing his position as "torn between family and national interest."

On 7 September 2019,Amber Ruddresigned asSecretary of State for Work and Pensionsand from the Conservative Party, describing the withdrawal of the party whip from MPs on 3 September as an "assault on decency and democracy".

Brexit plan publication

On 2 October 2019, the government delivered its Brexit proposals to the EU in a seven-page document, including plans to replace theIrish backstop.The proposals would see Northern Ireland stay in the European single market for goods, but leave the customs union, resulting in new customs checks.

Jeremy Corbyn,the leader of theLabour Party,said he did not think Johnson's Brexit plan would get EU support, claiming it was worse than the deal negotiated by former Prime MinisterTheresa May.He also said the proposal was "very unspecific on how theGood Friday Agreementcan be upheld. "

On 4 October, government papers submitted to theScottish courtindicated that Johnson would ask the EU for an extension to the Article 50 process if a deal was not reached by 19 October. However, later the same day Johnson reiterated his earlier statement that the UK would be leaving the EU on 31 October, regardless of whether or not a deal had been reached.

Revised withdrawal agreement

Main article:Brexit withdrawal agreement

Unsigned letter from Boris Johnson requesting an extension

Signed letter from Boris Johnson saying that an extension would be a mistake

The 29 October European Council decision agreeing an extension until 31 January 2020

Following negotiations between the UK and EU, a revised withdrawal agreement was reached on 17 October.A special Saturday sitting of Parliament was held two days later to debate the new agreement.MPs passed an amendment, introduced by SirOliver Letwinby 322 votes to 306, withholding Parliament's approval until legislation implementing the deal was passed, and intending to force the government to request a delay from the EU for the exit until 31 January 2020.Later that evening, 10 Downing Street confirmed that Johnson would send a letter to the EU requesting an extension, but would not sign it.EU Council PresidentDonald Tusksubsequently confirmed receipt of the letter, which Johnson had described as "Parliament's letter, not my letter". In addition, Johnson sent a second letter expressing the view that any further delay to Brexit would be a mistake.

On 21 October, the government published the withdrawal agreement bill and proposed three days of debate for opposition MPs to scrutinise it.TheSpeaker of the House of CommonsJohn Bercowrefused a government request to hold a vote on the Brexit deal, citing their previous decision to withdraw it.

The government brought the recently revisedEU Withdrawal Billto the House of Commons for debate on the evening of 22 October 2019.MPs voted on the Bill itself, which was passed by 329 votes to 299, and the timetable for debating the Bill, which was defeated by 322 votes to 308. Prior to the votes, Johnson had stated that if his timetable failed to generate the support needed to pass in parliament he would abandon attempts to get the deal approved and would seek a general election. Following the vote, however, Johnson announced that the legislation would be paused while he consulted with other EU leaders.

On 30 October, Johnson took part in a one-hour and eleven minute long session ofPrime Minister's Questions– the longest on record. He led tributes to parliamentarian John Bercow who stood down the following day after ten years as Speaker of the House of Commons.

2019 general election

Main article:2019 United Kingdom general election

Calls for early election

On 3 September 2019, Johnson threatened to call ageneral electionafter opposition and rebel Conservative MPs successfully voted against the government to take control of the order of business with a view to preventing a no-deal exit.

Thebill to block a no-deal exit,which the government opposed, passed the Commons on 4 September 2019, causing Johnson to call for a general election on 15 October.However, this motion was unsuccessful as it failed to command the support of two-thirds of the House as required by theFixed-term Parliaments Act(FTPA).

On 5 September, Johnson launched a national campaign to recruit 20,000 new police officers.He also pledged to build 40 new hospitals by 2030and increase schools funding.

A second attempt at a motion for an early general election failed on 9 September.After the programme motion for the withdrawal agreement bill failed to pass on 22 October, Johnson once again submitted a motion for an early general election under the FTPA. After the motion failed, the government put forward a short bill to hold another election – a method which needed only a simple majority and not a two thirds majority as required by the FTPA.Opposition MPs submitted an amendment to change the date of the election to 9 December rather than 12 December, but the amendment failed. On 29 October, MPs approved the election for 12 December in a second vote.The date of the election became law whenroyal assentwas given on 31 October.

Campaign

A map presenting the results of the2019 general election

Campaigning for the election began officially on 6 November.Both Corbyn and Johnson started the campaign in early November with negative approval ratings. According to Deltapoll, Johnson's rating stood at minus 5 with Corbyn's rating at minus 48.

Johnson participated in a television debate withJeremy Corbynhosted byITVon 19 November, and one hosted by theBBCon 6 December.He worked with Brett O'Donnell, a USRepublican Partystrategist, in preparation for the debates,whilst his campaign was managed byIsaac Levido,an Australian strategist.

The Conservative Party's election manifesto said that the UK would spend 0.7% of itsgross national incomeon overseas aid and more than 2% of its gross national product on defence, exceeding the defence spending target set byNATO.Johnson repeatedly used the slogan "get Brexit done" during the election, a key issue in the campaign.

TheBrexit PartyleaderNigel Faragehad suggested the Brexit and Conservative parties could form an electoral pact to maximise the seats taken by Brexit-supporting MPs, something the US PresidentDonald Trumpurged the pair to do, but this was rejected by Johnson.Despite this Farage later agreed that his party would only contest non-Conservative seats.

During thefloodswhich hit parts of England in November, Johnson was criticised for what some saw as his late response to the floodingafter he said they were not a national emergency.

The Conservatives bannedDaily Mirrorreporters from Johnson'scampaign bus.

On 27 November, the Labour Party announced it had obtained leaked government documents; they claimed these showed that, despite claims otherwise, the Conservatives were in trade negotiations with the US over theNational Health Service.The Conservatives said Labour were peddling "conspiracy theories".

Whilst campaigning in his constituency on 29 November, Johnson returned to Downing Street after news of astabbingonLondon Bridge.Five people were stabbed and two died from their injuries; Johnson declared the incident an act of terrorism.

Results, analysis and aftermath

Johnson (far-left) attending his first cabinet meeting after theConservative Party's victory at the 2019 general election

Under Johnson's leadership, the Conservative Party polled their largest share of votes since1979and won their largest number of seats since1987,resulting in alandslide victory.Their total of 13.9 million votes was the largest number of votes won by any party since1992.Their victory in the final contest of the election – the seat ofSt Ives,inCornwall– took their total number of MPs to 365, giving them a majority of 80.

On 13 December, Leader of the Labour PartyJeremy Corbynannounced that he would not lead the party into the next general election after a "very disappointing night".This came after Labour's worst general election defeat since1935.Following the2020 Labour Party leadership election,Keir Starmerwas elected as Corbyn's successor in April 2020.

Second term (December 2019 – September 2022)

See also:Second Johnson ministry

Johnson giving his first statement upon returning to 10 Downing Street following the 2019 general election

On the morning of 13 December, after the results of the election were announced, Johnson askedQueen Elizabeth II's permissionto form a new government,therefore beginning his second term.His administration remained the same as his first, aside from a newSecretary of State for Wales,to replaceAlun Cairns,who resigned after claims that he had known about a former aide's role in the 'sabotage' of a rape trial.Nicky Morgan,who had not stood in the election, andZac Goldsmith,who lost his seat, were made life peers to allow them to remain in the government, which was criticised as cronyism.

2020

COVID-19

See also:COVID-19 pandemic in the United KingdomandBritish government response to the COVID-19 pandemic

Early stages of the pandemic

On 31 January, the first UKCOVID-19cases were confirmed in York.By 1 March, cases of COVID-19 had reached every nation of the UK.On 2 March, the government held aCOBRAmeeting in order to discuss government plans with a medical directorPaul Cosfordconcluding that widespread transmission of coronavirus was "highly likely" in the UK.Johnson unveiled the Coronavirus Action Plan and declared the outbreak a 'level 4 incident'.On 6 March, he announced £46 million in funding for research into aCOVID-19 vaccineandrapid diagnostic tests.

Johnson giving aCOVID-19press conference

On 11 March, the new Chancellor,Rishi Sunakpresented the2020 budgetwhich had £30 billion in measures in order to protect the economy from COVID-19.On 12 March, Johnson said the outbreak represented the "worst public health crisis in a generation" after chairing an emergencyCOBR meeting.Johnson, and his team of advisers, includingChief Medical OfficerChris WhittyandChief Scientific AdviserSir Patrick Vallance,held daily press briefings from Downing Street to update the public on developments. The press briefings, which were also chaired by other cabinet ministers, were not a daily occurrence after 23 June, and were instead more sporadic.On 18 March, it was announced that there would be a three-month ban on evictions to protect renters during the crisis.

The government advised on measures such associal distancingand advised people in the UK against "non-essential" travel and contact with others, as well as suggesting people should avoid pubs, clubs and theatres, and work from home if possible. Pregnant women, people over the age of 70 and those with certain health conditions were urged to consider the advice "particularly important", and would be asked to self-isolate. Johnson announced that the UK would close the majority of its schools beginning on 20 March.That year's summer exams were cancelled across the UK.On 20 March, during the daily 17:00PM press conference, Johnson requested the closure of pubs, restaurants, gyms, entertainment venues, museums and galleries that evening, though with some regret, saying "We're taking away the ancient, inalienable right of free-born people of the United Kingdom to go to the pub".

The UK government's response to the pandemic, in particular the timeliness of public health measures being introduced and lifted, has faced criticism from academic medical sources, media outlets, relatives of COVID-19 patients and various political figures. Apublic inquiryinto the response is due to commence in 2022.

Job retention scheme and furlough

On 17 March, Sunak announced £330 billion would be made available in loans for businesses affected by the virus.On 20 March, Chancellor Rishi Sunak announced theCoronavirus Job Retention Schemewhich paid 80% of employee's wages (up to £2,500 a month) in order to protect jobs and the economy.The estimated cost of the scheme was £14 billion per month.

First lockdown

On 23 March, in a televised broadcast, Johnson announced wide-ranging restrictions onfreedom of movementin the UK,enforceable in lawfor a period of up to 2 years.The UK had been amongst the last major European states to progressively encourage social distancing, close schools, ban public events and order a lockdown.

On 24 March,Health SecretaryMatt Hancockannounced that theNHS Nightingale Hospital London,a makeshift hospital would be used with a capacity of up to 4,000 patients.Hancock also asked for retired health staff to return to the NHS.

During the pandemic Johnson also reached a divorce settlement with his estranged wifeMarina Wheeler,before his fiancéeCarrie Symondsgave birth to a son.

On 30 April, Johnson said that the country was "past the peak" of the outbreak and spoke about the importance of mask-wearing. He said that to avoid a second peak of infections, it was important to keep theR number(the number of cases directly generated by one case) below one.On 10 May he asked those who could not work from home to go to work, avoiding public transport if possible, encouraged the taking of "unlimited amounts" of outdoor exercise, and allowed driving to outdoor destinations within England. The slogan previously used by the government, "Stay at Home", was newly changed to "Stay Alert".

Hospitalisation of Boris Johnson

Johnson making a statement after he returned to Downing Street after recovering from COVID-19 at Chequers

On 27 March, it was announced that Johnson had tested positive for COVID-19.Before he tested positive he said he had shaken hands "with everybody" at a hospital where there were confirmed COVID-19 cases. TheScientific Advisory Group for Emergencieshad warned that the government should advise against handshaking due to existing evidence about the importance ofhand hygiene.On 5 April he was taken toSt Thomas' Hospitalin London for tests due to him displaying "persistent symptoms".He was moved to the hospital's intensive care unit the next day as his condition had worsened.First Secretary of State,Dominic Raabbegan deputising for him "where necessary".After receiving "standard oxygen treatment" in hospital, he was moved out of intensive care on 9 April.He left hospital on 12 April after a week of treatment, and was moved to his country residence,Chequers,to recuperate.After a fortnight at Chequers, he returned to Downing Street on the evening of 26 April and was said to be chairing a government COVID-19 "war cabinet" meeting.

Continued local restrictions and tier system

Johnson with his partnerCarrie Symondstaking part in 'Clap for Our Carers' on the steps of 10 Downing Street, May 2020

Amid fears of a second peak, on 9 September it was announced that from 14 September, in new rules, gatherings of more than six people in England would become illegal, with a number of set out exceptions. Fines beginning at £100, reaching £3,200 as a maximum for repeated offences, would be issued to those failing to comply.Johnson announced more restrictions on 22 September, which the media termed a "second Covid shutdown".During this time England was also undercertain additional local restrictions.These restrictions were replaced with athree-tier approach for Englandon 14 October.

Dominic Cummings scandal

Main article:Dominic Cummings scandal

In May 2020, reports emerged in theDaily MirrorandThe Guardianof Johnson's Chief AdvisorDominic Cummingstravelling fromLondontoCounty Durhamwith his family during the first national lockdown in March 2020 whilst Cummings was experiencing symptoms of COVID-19.On 12 April, before Cummings returned to London, he also travelled 30 miles (50 kilometers) toBarnard Castleallegedly to test his eyesight after issues with his vision before returning to London the following day.

On 23 May, a statement from Downing Street said that Cummings' journey was essential.On 24 May, during a press conference, Boris Johnson said that he believed Cummings had acted "responsibly, legally and with integrity".On 25 May, Cummings held a press conference in the rose garden of 10 Downing Street to defend his decision. 45 Conservative MPs either called for Cummings to resign or be sacked.Durham Constabularydid investigate Cummings' movements and whether they had breached any COVID regulations. However, the Constabulary did not consider any offence to have been committed.

The scandal was followed by a decrease in confidence of the public for the Conservative government.A study by theUCL's Covid-19 Social Study found a significant decline in faith of the UK government response to COVID following Cummings's actions and Johnson's refusal to remove him.Cummings, and his allyLee Cain,would later depart Downing Street in November 2020.

Eat Out to Help Out

Main article:Eat Out to Help Out

Johnson giving a COVID-19 press conference, October 2021

Eat Out to Help Out was a British government scheme to support and create jobs in the hospitality industry to counter the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.The scheme involved the governmentsubsidisingfood and non-alcoholic drinks at participating cafes, pubs, and restaurants at 50%, up to £10 per person (per order). The offer, announced in July 2020, was available during the month of August 2020, from Monday to Wednesday each week.

In total, the scheme subsidised £849 million across 160 million subsidised meals.Some consider the scheme to be a success in boosting the hospitality industry,while others disagree.A 2021 study found that the scheme contributed to a rise in COVID-19 infections.OnThe Andrew Marr Showon 4 October 2020, Johnson acknowledged the possibility that "Eat Out to Help Out" could have helped spread COVID-19, saying:

I also think that it is important now, irrespective of whether Eat Out To Help Out you know, what the balance of there was, it unquestionably helped to protect many… there are two million jobs at least in the hospitality sector. It was very important to keep those jobs going. Now, if it, insofar as that scheme may have helped to spread the virus, then obviously we need to counteract that and we need to counteract that with the discipline and the measures that we're proposing. I hope you understand the balance we're trying to strike.

Second lockdown

In a press conference on 31 October, Johnson said that England would enter a four-week national lockdown beginning on 5 November. Non-essential shops and hospitality closed, but schools, colleges and universities remained open.By 16 November, despite not experiencing COVID-19 symptoms,Johnson was self-isolating after coming into contact with an MP who tested positive,leading him on 18 November to become the first prime minister to attendPrime Minister's Questionsvia video link.The lockdown ended from 2 December when arevised three-tier approach for Englandwas put into force.

Vaccination procurement and approval

Johnson receiving theCOVID-19 vaccine

On 2 December, it was announced that theCOVID-19 vaccine developed by Pfizer and BioNTechhad been approved by theMedicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency.Johnson announced that the UK would receive 800,000 doses of the vaccine the following week for the launch ofthe UK's vaccination programme.On 30 December, it was announced that theOxford–AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccinehad been approved and would also be rolled out.

Domestic affairs

Cabinet reshuffle

Sajid Javid(left) resigned as Chancellor and was replaced byRishi Sunak(right)

Johnson conducted a cabinet reshuffle on 13 February when a number of senior ministers were sacked, includingNorthern Ireland SecretaryJulian Smith,Business SecretaryAndrea Leadsom,Environment SecretaryTheresa VilliersandAttorney GeneralGeoffrey Cox.Others leaving includedNicky MorganandJames Cleverly.In a surprise move,Sajid Javidresigned asChancellorand was succeeded byRishi Sunak.Javid's departure came from a refusal to comply with an order by Johnson to sack his advisory team and replace them with aides from Johnson's office.Steve Barclay,Alok Sharma,Brandon LewisandOliver Dowdenchanged their portfolios whilstAnne-Marie Trevelyan,Suella Braverman,George EusticeandAmanda Millingnewly joined the cabinet.

Transport

On 27 February, a court ruling deemed athird runwayatHeathrow Airport"unlawful". Johnson said he was not planning to appeal against the ruling. However, the court said that a third runway could be built in the future if it worked in line with the UK's commitments in theParis Agreement.TheSupreme Courtlifted the ban on building a third runway a number of months later.

Johnson came under pressure to "pay back the trust ofNorthernvoters "after his victory in the2019 general election.This was a factor in him giving the go-ahead to theHigh Speed 2(HS2) project on 11 February 2020.The rail line, capable of speeds above 186 mph, is scheduled to open in phases between 2028 and 2040. It has been criticised for its projected costs and impact on the environment. Additionally, Downing Street said that work was underway "by a range of government officials" to look into the prospects of building abridge from Scotland to Northern Ireland.

Black Lives Matter

Johnson stated that he was "appalled and sickened" by themurder of George Floyd,which led toprotests being held across the UK.He urged people to protest peacefully and said that the protesters who "attack[ed] public property or the police" would "face the full force of the law".

Foreign affairs

On 3 January 2020,a US airstrike in Iraqkilled the Iranian generalQasem Soleimani.Johnson was not told about the attack by US PresidentDonald Trumpprior to it happening. He was criticised for not returning from his holiday inMustiqueas tensions between Iran and the West rose.

On 16 June 2020, Johnson announced that theDepartment for International Developmentwould merge with the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, to create a new department named theForeign, Commonwealth and Development Office.The move was carried out on 2 September, but was criticised by the Labour Party and by former Prime MinistersDavid Cameron,Gordon BrownandTony Blair.

During Johnson's premiership the UK has seenan increase in English Channel migrant crossings.In August 2020, it was reported that in 2020 so far almost 4,000 people had crossed the Channel illegally, using at least 300 small boats. On 6 August a record number of migrants arrived, at least 235.It was also observed that while it was originally mostly men arriving, young children and pregnant women were also arriving.By the end of 2020, about 635 boats had crossed theEnglish Channel,carrying 8,438 people.

China

On 28 January, the UK government decided to letHuaweihave a limited role in building its new5Gnetwork and supplying new high-speed network equipment to wireless carriers, whilst ignoring theUS government's warnings that it would sever intelligence sharing if they did not exclude the company. The UK government stated that they deemed Huawei as a high-risk vendor but decided against banning the company from its 5G network, and said instead that they had decided to "use Huawei in a limited way so we can collectively manage the risk".SeveralConservative Partymembers, on their part, warned against using Huawei. Due in part to pressure from the US government, in July 2020 Johnson's government decided not to buy any ofHuawei's equipment, and told mobile providers to remove the firm's 5G technology from their networks by 2027.In November 2020, the government announced that the installation of 5G equipment will no longer be permitted from September 2021.

During theHong Kong–Mainland China conflictin July 2020, Johnson's government offered up to three millionHong Kong citizensthe opportunity to live in the UK with a "route to citizenship" if they heldBritish National (Overseas)passports.

Brexit

Johnson signing theWithdrawal Agreement,24 January 2020

Main article:Brexit

Johnson welcomed a decision by political parties inNorthern Irelandto restore theNorthern Ireland Assemblyon the basis of negotiations between the British and Irish governments. Talks succeeded underNorthern Ireland SecretaryJulian Smithto create a6th Northern Ireland Assembly,which resumed meeting on 11 January 2020. It followed a three-year hiatus with a new power sharing agreement betweenSinn Féinand theDUP.

On 18 January 2020, Johnson revealed plans for theBrexit Daycelebrations in Downing Street, and the commemorative coin which entered circulation on that day.

On 20 January, in its first defeat since the general election, Johnson's government lost three votes in the House of Lords over its Brexit legislation.However, two days later, he said the UK had "crossed the Brexit finish line" after parliament passed the EU bill for implementing the withdrawal agreement.On 23 January, the bill was given royal assent and the next day it was signed by European leaders inBrusselsand by Johnson in Downing Street. The signing in Downing Street was witnessed by both British and European officials, including the prime minister's Europe advisorDavid Frost.

There was a vote on the UK government EU bill in theEuropean Parliamenton 29 January where it was ratified by 621 votes to 49.

TheDepartment for Exiting the European Unionwas closed down at 11:01 pm on 31 January, a minute after the United Kingdom officially left the European Union.The Brexit transition period lasted until 31 December 2020, an end date that was included inTheresa May's withdrawal agreement. Under an article of the agreement, the UK-EU Joint Committee could have decided to extend the transition period by "up to two years",but Johnson expressed his wish to have signed a free-trade deal with the EU by the end of December. During this time the UK remained in the EU'sSingle MarketandCustoms Union.

The UK and EU trade negotiations were affected by the COVID-19 pandemic in thatvideoconferencingwas employed by the two sides.

In July 2020 the newly reconstitutedIntelligence and Security Committee report on Russiawas released. It stated that the British government and intelligence agencies had failed to conduct any proper assessment of attempts by theRussian governmentto interfere with the2016 EU membership referendum.It stated that the government "had not seen or sought evidence of successful interference in UK democratic processes". The committee'sStewart Hosie,anSNPMP, said "The report reveals that no one in government knew if Russia interfered in or sought to influence the referendum because they did not want to know". Yet, the report stated that committee members had said that no firm conclusion could be ascertained on whether the Russian government had or had not successfully interfered in the referendum.

On 4 September 2020 former Australian Prime MinisterTony Abbottwas appointed by the government as an advisor to theBoard of Trade.Opposition MPs called for him to have been rejected over his views on "homosexuality, women and climate change".Seven months after the UK left the EU, the country's first major post-Brexit trade agreement was signed, a deal with Japan, withLiz Trusson the British negotiating side. It was said that "99% of exports to Japan" would be "tariff-free "as a result of the deal.

The introduction of theUK Internal Market Billto Parliament caused controversyas there were concerns about the impact of parts of the bill on therule of law.The government ultimately withdrew these parts before enactment.

On 16 October 2020 Johnson said that the UK "must get ready" forno trade deal with the EU.

Following last-minute negotiations, it was announced on 24 December that a UK-EU trade deal had been agreed.

2021

COVID-19

Main article:Timeline of the COVID-19 pandemic in the United Kingdom (January–June 2021)

Third lockdown in England

Johnson speaking to US PresidentJoe Bidenon the day ofhis inauguration,January 2021

On 4 January, Johnson announced that England would enter a third lockdown beginning the following day. Scotland also decided to enforce this lockdown. People were told only to leave their homes for limited reasons. All schools and colleges closed to the majority of pupils. At the time the restrictions were said to last until at least mid-February.Also on 4 January, an 82-year-old man named Brian Pinker became the first person to receive theOxford–AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine.On 5 January, Rishi Sunak announced economic support for businesses during this lockdown with up to £9,000 in grants per property. Some business groups believed the help was a good start but didn't go far enough to prevent the collapse of some businesses.Health SecretaryMatt Hancockconfirmed the vaccination target of every adult in the UK to receive a dose of the vaccination by Autumn 2021 and all vulnerable groups to receive one by mid-February.

In January, the head of theCOVID Recovery Group,Steve BakerMP, warned Boris Johnson that he may face a leadership challenge if COVID restrictions weren't lifted citing concerns surrounding civil liberties.Boris Johnson confirmed that all travel corridors into the UK would be closed starting on 18 January due to worries of potential new strains whilst confirming that all visitors would have to demonstrate proof of a negative COVID test before arriving.

In theMarch 2021 budget,Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak announced that the furlough scheme would be extended until September 2021.By this period, the scheme had supported over 11 million jobs since its introduction in March 2020. Sunak also announced an extension of theUniversal Credit£20 uplift, to be continued for an additional six months amongst other measures.

Start of reopening

On 22 February,Boris Johnsonannounced a four step plan for ending all COVID restrictions by 21 June.On 25 February, the COVID alert level was lowered from level 5 to 4.By 28 February, the milestone of 20 million first vaccinations being administered had been achieved.On 8 March, schools in England reopened, with secondary schools requiring masks in lessons.Johnson received his first dose of the AstraZeneca vaccine on 19 March and encouraged others to do the same, saying: "Everybody, when you do get your notification to go for a jab, please go and get it."On 29 March, outdoor met-ups and outdoor sports facilities would be re-opened.

On 7 April theModerna COVID-19 vaccinebegan being rolled out.On 12 April, pub gardens and shops were reopened.By 12 April, all high risk individuals and over-50s had been offered at least the first COVID vaccine.By 24 April, over half the population had received at least one vaccine.On 5 May, the Government announced a £29.3 million increase in funding to help with vaccine development against future potential variants.On 10 May, the COVID alert level was lowered from 4 to 3 on the same day that zero COVID deaths were reported in England, Scotland and Northern Ireland.On 12 May, Johnson said anindependent public inquiryinto the handling of the pandemic would be held in spring 2022.

During a select committee hearing,Dominic Cummingsclaimed that thousands of people died due to COVID mistakes and thatBoris Johnsonwas "unfit for the job". Equally, he accused Johnson of ignoring scientific advice and wrongly delaying lockdowns.Furthermore, Cummings accused Health Secretary Matt Hancock of "criminal, disgraceful behaviour that caused serious harm" and that he should have been fired for 15 to 20 different things.On 19 July, a date dubbed "Freedom Day" by the media, the majority of COVID-19 restrictions were lifted in England.

"Let the bodies pile high in their thousands"

In April 2021, Johnson denied allegations made by theDaily Mailthat he had said he would rather have seen "bodies pile high in their thousands" than approve a third lockdown.The full remark was reported to have been "No more fucking lockdowns – let the bodies pile high in their thousands".He is alleged to have said it on 30 October 2020, one day before the announcement of the second national lockdown.

Sources told theBBCandRobert PestonofITV Newsthat the remark was made.According to Peston, the remarks were heard by a number of people.BothThe Guardianand the BBC reported that the remark had been heard shouted from an office inDowning Streetfollowing a main meeting.Peston stated that two witnesses were prepared to swear under oath that the remarks were made.Former chief adviserDominic Cummingssaid in a May select committee that he heard the remarks being made.

Johnson denied having made the remark, describing it as "total, total rubbish".Cabinet ministersMichael GoveandBen Wallacealso stated that the reports of the remarks were untrue.The reported remark was condemned by other British politicians and relatives of victims of the COVID-19 pandemic.

In a statement to theUK COVID-19 Inquiry,Eddie Lister,theDowning Street Chief of Staffat the time, confirmed that Johnson made the statement and called it "an unfortunate turn of phrase".

Omicron variant

Main article:SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant

In December 2021, more stringent restrictions for England were put forward by Johnson and the government. The restrictions, called "Plan B", were a partial renewal of previous measures due to the increased incidence of theSARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant.These proposals included face coverings to be required in more public settings, guidance to useremote workwherever possible, and requirements ofCOVID passportsto enter a nightclub or other large venues.However, 40 Conservative MPs later voted against mandatory face coverings in the House of Commonsand 100 voted against compulsory COVID passes– the largest parliamentary rebellion of Johnson's premiership.Eight Labour MPs, ten Liberal Democrat MPs and six Democratic Unionist MPs also voted against the proposals, as well as Green Party MPCaroline Lucasand independent MPsRob RobertsandJeremy Corbyn.

Domestic affairs

Downing Street refurbishment controversy

Main article:Downing Street refurbishment controversy

In April 2021, Cummings made allegations that Johnson had arranged for donors to "secretly pay" for renovations on the private residence at 11 Downing Street.Cummings wrote on his blog that the plans were "unethical, foolish, possibly illegal" and "almost certainly broke the rules on proper disclosure of political donations if conducted in the way he intended."

On 27 April Johnson asked the Cabinet Secretary,Simon Case,to hold a review about the refurbishment.On 28 April, theElectoral Commissionannounced it had opened a formal investigation into the allegations.On the same day Johnson insisted that he had not broken any laws over the refurbishment and had met the requirements he was obliged to meet in full.DuringPrime Minister's Questions,the leader of the opposition,Keir Starmer,asked: "Whoinitiallypaid for the redecoration of his Downing Street flat? "; Johnson responded:" I paid for Downing Street's refurbishment personally, Mr. Speaker. "

On 28 MayLord Geidtpublished a report on the allegations in an annex to theregister of interests.The report concluded that Johnson did not breach the Ministerial Code and that no conflict, or reasonably perceived conflict, of interest arose. However, Lord Geidt expressed that it was "unwise" for Johnson to have proceeded with refurbishments without "more rigorous regard for how this would be funded".Angela Rayner,Deputy Leader of theLabour Party,wrote to Lord Geidt asking for evidence of the lack of conflict of interest and said that it was "frankly scarcely believable" that Johnson did not know who was funding the refurbishments.

The Electoral Commission reported on 9 December that it found that the Conservative Party had failed to follow the law in not accurately reporting donations to the party from Lord Brownlow and imposed a £17,800 fine.The Heraldsay the commission's report outlines how in March all the money paid by Brownlow and his company had been reimbursed as had payments made by the Conservative Party and Cabinet Office.Downing Street had said at the time that the full cost of the works had been met personally by the prime minister.Following the publication of the report,The Guardianreported that Johnson had been accused of misleading Lord Geidt during his investigation due to apparent inconsistencies between the reports. Johnson had told Geidt that he did not know who had paid for the refurbishments until the story was reported in the media in February 2021, whereas the Electoral Commission found that he had messaged Lord Brownlow asking for extra funds in November 2020. Downing Street denied that there was any inconsistency stating that Johnson only contacted Brownlow in his role as the head of a blind trust collecting donations, but was not aware that Brownlow was also the source of the donations.

Local elections and Hartlepool by-election

On 6 May 2021,local and mayoral elections were heldacross the UK, as well asSeneddandScottish Parliamentelections, anda by-election in Hartlepool.Johnson's Conservatives substantially improved their vote shares in most of the country, and won Hartlepool for the first time in the constituency's history.These elections were widely seen as a boost to the future of Johnson and his party, and further secured his position.

Cabinet reshuffle

Johnson conducted a cabinet reshuffle on 15 September 2021, which sawDominic RaabbecomeJustice SecretaryandDeputy Prime Ministerand be replaced asForeign SecretarybyInternational Trade SecretaryLiz Truss.Also changing their portfolios wereMichael Gove,Steve BarclayandOliver Dowden.Nadhim Zahawi,Anne-Marie TrevelyanandNadine Dorriesnewly joined the cabinet, whileGavin Williamson,Robert Buckland,Robert JenrickandAmanda Millingleft the cabinet.

Energy crisis

Main articles:2021 United Kingdom fuel supply crisisand2021 United Kingdom natural gas supplier crisis

In September 2021, afuel supply crisisoccurred in the UK, caused by panic buying triggered by media reports of a leaked government briefing discussing the shortage ofheavy goods vehicle(HGV) drivers.This coincided with arise in energy pricesthat Johnson said was a "short-term" problem caused by "the global economy coming back to life" after the COVID-19 pandemic. Economists of various political views, and the head of energy regulatorOfgemstrongly disagreed.The UK government has turned toQatarto seek a long-term natural gas deal to ensure a stable supply ofliquefied natural gas(LNG) to the UK.

Owen Paterson affair

See also:Owen Paterson § Lobbying and breach of Commons advocacy rules,andUnited Kingdom parliamentary second jobs controversy

In November 2021, Johnson backed a motion to block the suspension ofOwen Paterson,a Conservative MP found to have abused his position by theindependent standards commissionerafter undertaking paid lobbying on behalf of two companies.The motion called for the creation of a new Conservative-majority committee to examine reforms of the standards investigation process.Many Conservative MPs refused to support the motion, and 13 defied athree-line whipto vote against it.Following the announcement by opposition parties that they would boycott the new committee, and faced with a backlash in the media and from MPs of all parties, the government reversed its position and announced that a new vote would take place on whether Paterson should be suspended.Paterson announced his resignation as an MP the same day.At a meeting of the1922 Committee,Johnson said that he made a mistake over his handling of the affair.

North Shropshire by-election

After Paterson resigned, aby-electionwas held in Paterson's former constituency ofNorth Shropshire.TheLiberal Democratcandidate,Helen Morgan,overturned a Conservative majority of nearly 23,000 to win the seat.The 34% swing wasseventh largest in United Kingdom by-election history.Veteran Conservative backbencherSir Roger Galedescribed the result "as a referendum on the prime minister's performance".

Events

Following thedeath of Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburghon 9 April 2021, the government ordered that its communications and some aspects of ministerial activity would pause for a number of mourning days.Johnson married Carrie Symonds on 29 May in a secret ceremony atWestminster Cathedral.

Domestic policy

The2021 Queen's Speechannounced that the government will "level up opportunities across all parts of the United Kingdom, supporting jobs, businesses and economic growth and addressing the impact of the pandemic on public services", implementing an election manifesto pledge. Laws proposed in the Queen's Speech included aHigher Education (Freedom of Speech) Billto combatdeplatformingat universities,anOnline Safety Billto impose a statutoryduty of careon online companies and empowerOfcomto block particular websites,and anAnimal Welfare (Sentience) Billto legally recogniseanimal sentience.

Social care

On 7 September Johnson announced plans for social care reforms, including a 1.25% rise inNational Insuranceto raise £36 billion over three years, and a cap of £86,000 on lifetime care costs in England.The following day MPs voted in favour of anNHS and social care taxrise by 319 votes to 248, a majority of 71.

Levelling up

The Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government was renamed theDepartment for Levelling Up, Housing and Communitiesunder Gove, its Secretary of State. Former Bank of England Chief EconomistAndy Haldanewas appointed as the head of the Levelling Up Taskforce.

Foreign affairs

Brexit

TheEU–UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement,the UK-EU trade deal provisionally came into force on 1 January 2021.In October 2021, theOffice for Budget Responsibility(OBR) estimated that Brexit would reduce the UK's potential GDP by 4% over the long term, a bigger economic impact than the pandemic which would result in approximately £40 billion worth in lost revenue for theTreasuryper year.Furthermore, the OBR estimated an import and export intensity reduction of 15% due to Brexit.

G7 summit

Main article:47th G7 summit

Johnson at the 47th G7 summit, which he chaired in June 2021

Johnson chaired the 47th G7 summit, which was held from 11 to 13 June 2021 inCornwall,England.He invited leaders from India, South Korea, South Africa and Australia.Australiawelcomed the official invitation.Moon Jae-in,President of South Korea,accepted the invitation and extended an invitation to Johnson to attend the Partnering for Green Growth and the Global Goals 2030 (P4G Summit) in May 2021, which Johnson accepted.Narendra Modi,Prime Minister of India,also accepted the invitation. It was suggested that Johnson is attempting to expand the G7 group, a meeting forum for the world's leading economies, to create theD-10,a forum for the world's ten leading democracies.

The 2021 summit was the first summit attended byItalian Prime MinisterMario DraghiandUS PresidentJoe Biden,and was the last summit attended byGerman ChancellorAngela Merkel.It was also the first and only summit forJapanese Prime MinisterYoshihide Suga.

Chagos dispute

The United Kingdom andMauritiusdisputethe sovereignty of theChagos Archipelagoin the Indian Ocean.In February 2019, theInternational Court of JusticeinThe Hagueissuedan advisory opinion statingthat the UK has an obligation to bring to an end its administration of the Chagos archipelago as rapidly as possible. In June 2020, 30 British MPs – including Labour, SNP and Liberal Democrats – signed a letter calling on Prime Minister Johnson to act immediately on the ICJ ruling. However, the Foreign Office rejected the advisory opinion.Johnson disputed Mauritian claims to sovereignty over the Chagos.

Migrant crossings

On 19 July, 430 people crossed theEnglish Channel,making it the largest crossing on record. 1,850 people crossed in July alone, which was more than the total for the whole of 2019.

Withdrawal from Afghanistan

On 17 August, following the UK's removal of troops from Afghanistan and thefall of Kabulto theTaliban,Johnson announced a new scheme to resettle 20,000 Afghans in Britain.Parliament was recalled on 18 August and MPs gathered in the House of Commons chamber, with those previously haven spoken via video link unable to do so.

AUKUS

Main article:AUKUS

Johnson with U.S. PresidentJoe Bidenin theOval Office

On 15 September, Johnson, Australian Prime MinisterScott Morrisonand US PresidentJoe BidenannouncedAUKUS,a security pact between the United Kingdom,Australiaand theUnited Statesseen as an initiative to counter theperceived dominance of China in the Pacific.According to the pact, the US and UK would help Australia to acquirenuclear powered submarines.The agreement also includes cooperation on advancedcyber,artificial intelligenceand autonomy,quantum technologies,undersea capabilities,hypersonicandcounter-hypersonic,electronic warfare,innovation and information sharing.

French and Chinese officials criticised the agreement.Prime Minister Boris Johnson said that the deal would create "hundreds of high-skilled jobs" and "preserve security and stability around the world" but said that the relationship with France was "rock solid".Johnson responded to French anger on 21 September by saying "I just think it's time for some of our dearest friends around the world to prenez un grip about this and donnez-moi un break";the latter being broken French for "get a grip and give me a break".He made further reference to the deal in his speech at the Conservative Party Conference the following month, touting it as "a supreme example of global Britain in action, of something daring and brilliant that would simply would not have happened if we'd remained in the EU", whilst acknowledging "a certain raucous squawkus from the anti-AUKUS caucus."

COP26

Main article:2021 United Nations Climate Change Conference

The 26thUnited Nations Climate Change conferencewas hosted in the United Kingdom in Glasgow between 31 October and 13 November 2021, with the Cabinet SecretaryAlok Sharmaas the President of the conference.On 13 November 2021, theGlasgow Climate Pactwas signed which pledged to 'phase down' the use of coal.It also agreed to pledge further cuts in CO₂emissions in 2022 to keep temperature rises within 1.5 °C.Furthermore, it was agreed to increase climate financing for developing countries.

2022

Domestic affairs

Cost of living crisis

Main articles:2021–present United Kingdom cost-of-living crisis,Hunger in the United Kingdom,Economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in the United Kingdom,andEconomic effects of Brexit

The UK cost of living crisis is a period starting in late 2021 which intensified in mid-2022 in which prices for many essential goods in theUnited Kingdombegan increasing faster thanhousehold income,resulting in a fall inreal income.This is caused in part by a rise ininflationin the UK. While all in the UK are affected by rising prices, it most substantially affectslow-income persons.

Both global and local factors have contributed to the UK's cost of living crisis. According toBank of EnglandgovernorAndrew Bailey,about 80% of the causes driving the cost of living crisis are global.These include the ongoingCOVID-19 pandemic,an ongoing chip shortage,an energy crisis in 2021–2022,a supply chain crisis in 2021–2022andRussia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022.The UK was reported to be among the worst affected among the world's advanced economies.

Causes unique to the UK include labour shortages related to foreign workers leaving due toBrexit,and additional taxes on households. Factors that have worsened the crisis since 1 April 2022 includeOfgemincreasing the household energy price cap by 54%, an increase inNational Insurance,and a rise inCouncil Tax.Household income, whether from wages or benefits, has not generally kept pace with rising prices.In April 2022, UKreal wagesfell by 4.5%, the sharpest fall since records began back in 2001.

By September 2022, the UK was the only G7 economy that had not reached pre-COVID-19 pandemic levels of GDP. In August 2022, a report by academics at theUniversity of Oxfordover the previous year found that Brexit had exacerbated labour shortages in the UK, most notably in the hospitality and support sectors. Alongside Brexit, the academics cited an increase in the early retirement of workers older than 50 as a factor in the shortages.

Based on anOffice for National Statistics(ONS) survey between May and June 2022, it found that 52% of respondents had cut back on their energy use.According to a survey from theFood Foundationthink tank published in February 2022, one million UK adults went a whole day without eating over the past month.In March 2022, at the start of the crisis, it was estimated that 6.7 million people were already usingfood banksin the UK.A further 9.9m across England, Wales and Northern Ireland – more than one in five people who responded to a survey – said they'd skipped a meal or cut down on portion sizes.The chief executive of theTrussell Trust(an NGO and charity that works to end the need for food banks), Emma Revie, says the expansion is partly down to the fall in benefits, once inflation is taken into account.

In response to the crisis, the Government announced several measures to help solve the crisis. A £400 energy grant was announced for all households.There was then a more targeted payment response for the more vulnerable in society in the form of a £650 payment to the 8 million lowest income households in the country, £300 for 8 million pensioner households and £150 for 6 million in non-means tested disability benefits.To help fund these energy support payments, ChancellorRishi Sunakannounced a windfall tax, to tax extraordinary profits of energy companies which aimed to raise about £5bn of revenue.

Inflation rise

Main articles:2021–2023 inflation surgeandEconomic impact of the Russian invasion of Ukraine

Inflation started to rise at the end of 2021, affecting the cost of food, transport, electricity and other daily items. By June 2022, inflation in the UK reached 9.4%, the highest inflation rate since 1982.In August 2022, theBank of Englandestimated that inflation could reach 13% by the end of 2022.In response, the Bank'sMonetary Policy Committeevoted 8–1 in favour of raising interest rates by 0.5 percentage points to 1.75 per cent on 4 August 2022, the biggest increase in 27 years.In June 2022, theOECDreported that the UK would be set to have the worst rate of economic growth in theG20apart fromRussia.The OECD attributed this to high inflation and tax increases.

There is no complete consensus amongst economists on the cause of the inflationary surge, however, most attribute it to product shortages resulting fromglobal supply-chain problems,largely caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.Another factor regarding the rise in inflation was the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine. Before the invasion, Ukraine accounted for 11.5% of the world'swheatcrop market, and contributed 17% of the world'smaizecrop export market, and the invasion caused wheat and maize from Ukraine unable to reach international market,causing shortage,and result in dramatic rise in prices,that exacerbated tofoodstuffsandbiodieselprices.

Tax rises

The UK tax take is set to rise from 33.5% of GDP before the pandemic to 36.2% by the mid-2020s.That will be the highest share of national income taken by the state since the early 1950s.Corporation tax is also rising from 19% to 25%, income tax thresholds are being frozen in cash terms – dragging more workers into higher bands. On 7 September 2021, the Government had announced an increase of National Insurance (NI) rates by 1.25 percentage points (from 12% to 13.25%) for the 2022–23 tax year, breaking its 2019 manifesto promise.From 2023, a newhealth and social care levycharged at the same 1.25% rate would be introduced with NI rates reverting to their previous levels.

Conversion therapy

In early April 2022, Johnson announced his intention to banconversion therapyfor sexual orientation but not fortransgender Britons,despite a previous commitment to end such treatment for allLGBT people.He defended his decision citing "complexities and sensitivities", adding that he thought biological males should notcompete in women's sportand women should have their own changing rooms.

June 2022 by-elections and local elections

Main articles:2022 Wakefield by-electionand2022 Tiverton and Honiton by-election

Following heavy Conservative defeats in the 23 June by-elections in Wakefield and Tiverton and Honiton, by the Labour Party and the Liberal Democrats respectively,Oliver Dowden,theCo-Chairman of the Conservative Party,resigned,saying: "We cannot carry on with business as usual"and "Somebody must take responsibility".Former party leaderMichael Howardcalled for Johnson to resign, saying: "[Mr Johnson's] biggest asset has always been his ability to win votes but I'm afraid yesterday's results make it clear that he no longer has that ability.... The best person in the Conservative Party to judge the mood, both of the party and of the electorate, is its chairman... I think the party, and even more importantly the country, would now be better off under new leadership."Johnson announced that had no intention of changing or resigning; senior Conservatives accused him of increasingly "delusional" behaviour.On 26 June 2022 Johnson said: "At the moment I'm thinking actively about the third term and what could happen then, but I will review that when I get to it."

Domestic policy

Repeal of the Fixed-term Parliaments Act

Main article:Dissolution and Calling of Parliament Act 2022

In December 2020, the government published a draft Fixed-term Parliaments Act 2011 (Repeal) Bill, later retitled theDissolution and Calling of Parliament Billwhen it was laid before Parliament in May 2021,which would ultimately repeal the2011 Fixed-term Parliaments Act,revive the prerogative powers of the monarch to dissolve Parliament (at the request of the prime minister), and ensure that a Parliament is automatically dissolved five years after it first met (17 December 2024) and polling day being 25 working days later (24 January 2025).

The Dissolution and Calling of Parliament Bill was granted Royal Assent on 24 March 2022, meaning that the prime minister will again be able to request the monarch to dissolve Parliament and call an early election, with 25 working days' notice.

Elections Act

Main article:Elections Act 2022

TheElections Act 2022was introduced to theHouse of Commonsin July 2021, and received Royal Assent in April 2022.The requirement would apply toUK general elections,English local elections,andpolice and crime commissionerelections inEngland and Wales.

This was the first time that voterphoto identificationfor in-person voting in the United Kingdom was implemented.The act was criticised for permitting as acceptable voter identification "an Older Person's Bus Pass, anOyster 60+ Card,aFreedom Pass",while not allowing 18+ student Oyster cards,national railcards,or student ID cards.Critics have said the list discriminates against younger people, who more often vote Labour.Between 2010 and 2018, there were just two convictions for voter fraud.According to academic research presented to the House of Commons, these changes may result in 1.1 million fewer voters at the next general election due to the photo ID requirement.

Another controversial amendment was granting the government new powers over the independent elections regulator.TheElectoral Commissionhas said it is "concerned" about its independence from political influence in the future.

Key elements of the act were opposed byparliamentary committees,theHouse of Lords,the Electoral Commission,devolved governments,and academics.Changes proposed by theHouse of Lordswere rejected byBoris Johnson's government.William Wallace, Baron Wallace of Saltaire,described it as a "nefarious piece of legislation" that is "shabby and illiberal".

Foreign affairs

Russian invasion of Ukraine

Main article:Russian invasion of Ukraine

Johnson with Ukrainian PresidentVolodymyr Zelenskyyduring his visit to Kyiv in April 2022.

During theprelude to the Russian invasion of Ukraine,Johnson's government warned the Russian Government not to invadeDonbas.Despite this, Johnson'sForeign SecretaryLiz TrusstoldBBC Newsthat British troops were "unlikely" to be deployed.In a phone call toPresidentVladimir Putin,Johnson urged him to "avoid bloodshed".Johnson and Putin agreed in a phone call to work towards a "peaceful resolution".On 1 February and 9 April 2022, Johnson arrived inKyivon a diplomatic visit, becoming the first leader of a major Western power to visitKyivduring the crisis.He called the presence of theRussian Armed Forcesnear theRussia–Ukraine border"the biggest security crisis that Europe has faced for decades".On 20 February 2022, Johnson warned that Russia is planning the "biggest war in Europe since 1945" as Putin intends to invade and encircle Kyiv.

In response to the invasion, the UK Government placed several sanctions on the Russian Government. For example, the UK has excluded key Russian banks from the UK financial system, frozen the assets of all Russian banks, barred Russian firms from borrowing money, and placed limits on deposits Russians can make at UK banks.The UK also promised to phase out Russian oil imports by the end of 2022.The UK has also stopped the sale of "golden visas", which allowed wealthy Russians to get British residency rights.The UK increased importtariffsby 35% percent on a number of goods from Russia andBelarus.

On 8 March 2022, President Zelensky was invited to address the UK Parliament virtually where he thanked the UK for its support and urged the government to tighten sanctions on Russia.He compared the stand that Ukraine is taking against Vladimir Putin to that which the UK took against Germany in the Second World War. He said: "Just in the same way you didn't want to lose your country when Nazis started to fight your country, you had to fight." President Zelensky then evoked Winston Churchill's most famous speech of defiance, in whichhe promised to fight "on the beaches",saying: "We'll fight in the forests, on the shores, in the streets."

In March 2022, at the Conservative Party's spring conference inBlackpool,Johnson was criticised for comparing the struggle of Ukrainians fighting Russia's invasion to people in Britain voting for Brexit.Since the start of the crisis, the Government has provided £2.3 billion in military support to Ukraine.

Rwanda asylum policy

Main article:Rwanda asylum plan

British home secretaryPriti Patel(left) and Rwandan foreign ministerVincent Biruta(right) enacting the policy on 14 April 2022

The UK and Rwanda Migration and Economic Development Partnership was announced in April 2022.It is an immigration policy whereby individuals identified by the United Kingdom as beingillegal immigrantsorasylum seekerswould be relocated toRwandafor processing, asylum and resettlement.This policy originated in the backdrop of increasedEnglish Channel migrant crossingswith more than 13,000 people having made the crossing from France between January and August 2022, with around 8,000 arriving since the Rwanda policy was launched.This came with growing political pressure to address the crossings. Those successful in claiming asylum will remain inRwandaand not be permitted to return to the United Kingdom.The first flight under this plan received legal clearance from theHigh Courtand was scheduled for 14 June 2022. A last-minute interim measure by theEuropean Court of Human Rights(ECHR) led to the flight being cancelled, after stating that the High Court in London must first fully examine whether the removals policy is lawful. A hearing is scheduled for September 2022.

Its stated aims are to decrease the amount ofmigrant crossings in the English channel,stophuman smuggling,and boost Rwandan investment and development.Johnson said it would "save countless lives" and would break the business model of "vile people smugglers".The United Kingdom will pay Rwanda an "economic transformation and integration fund" amounting to £120 million, and will also fund each immigrant between £20,000 and £30,000 for their relocation and temporary accommodation in the scheme.

On 10 June 2022,The Timesreported thatPrince Charleshad privately described the plan as "appalling" and feared that it would overshadow theCommonwealth Heads of Government meetingin Rwanda on 23 June, where the Prince represented the Queen.Theoppositioncriticised the scheme saying that in the past Rwanda had shot asylum seekers because they protested about food shortages, and had sent asylum seekers back toSyriaandAfghanistan.The opposition also said thatPatelwas failing to get a better agreement withFranceto prevent people crossing the Channel because relevant relationships with France had broken down.In July 2022, the High Court heard that Whitehall officials had initially excluded Rwanda on human rights grounds from the list of potential partners for asylum transfers.One man on the flight that was cancelled due to legal challenges by the ECHR told the BBC he would "prefer to die" than be sent to Rwanda.In August 2022, the BBC reported that supportive ministers of the policy had been warned by their own advisers that the Rwandan government had previously tortured and killed political opponents.

Scandals

In January 2022 experts at the Centre for the Study of Corruption at theUniversity of Sussexmaintained Johnson's administration was more corrupt "than any UK government since the Second World War" and feared serious consequences for the UK if it continued.

Partygate

Main article:Partygate

Johnson at one of the 2020 gatherings at which some attendees breached COVID-19 regulations. Reports of these gatherings led to thePartygatescandal, which ultimately played a role in Johnson's resignation as prime minister.

Beginning in December 2021, the media reported that there had beensocial gatheringsby the Conservative Party and UK government staff during public health restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic. These included an occasion in which Johnson and thespouse of the prime minister of the United KingdomCarrie Johnsonwere pictured with seventeen staff members havingcheese and wineinthe gardenof 10 Downing Street during thefirst COVID-19 lockdown in the United Kingdom,which theprime minister's official spokespersonlater said was a "work meeting".Johnson admitted attending "socially distanced drinks" organised byMartin Reynolds,Johnson'sprincipal private secretary,during the same lockdown. Johnson said he thought it was a "work meeting", whileDominic Cummings,who was anadviserto Johnson at the time, said that he had warned the prime minister against it.There were other events reported involving Johnson and his staff.An inquiry into the allegations was begun by thecabinet secretarySimon Case,but after it was reported that his own office had held a party in December 2020, the inquiry was passed toSue Gray,another senior civil servant.There was negative reaction against Johnson from Conservative MPs, with some calling for him to resign. Johnson said "nobody said this was something that was against the rules" and that he took "full responsibility for what took place".Johnson, his wife Carrie, andChancellor of the ExchequerRishi Sunak all receivedfixed penalty noticesfrom the police.

Conservative Party rules mean that a confidence vote is triggered by 15% of MPs sending letters to1922 CommitteechairmanGraham Brady.There were reports that the threshold would be reached imminently in January 2022.The Guardianreported that several Conservative MPs were waiting until Gray's report into the alleged parties before deciding whether to send letters to Brady.The Conservative MPChristian Wakeforddefected to the Labour Party on 19 January 2022, saying that Johnson and the Conservative Party were "incapable of offering the leadership and government this country deserves".TheNew Statesmanreported that some Conservative MPs were delaying sending letters to Brady after Wakeford's defection demonstrated that division in the Conservative Party benefitted Labour.Around the same time, the Conservative MPWilliam Wraggsaid that his party's whips were usingblackmailand threats of withdrawing funding in MPs' constituencies to secure their votes.Another Conservative MP,Nus Ghani,said that a whip had told her that her practice ofIslamwas discussed when deciding to fire her from her ministerial role in 2020.Wragg and Ghani were vice-chairs of the 1922 Committee, which was said to be considering reducing the period after an unsuccessful vote of no confidence before which a new vote could be triggered from twelve months to six months.The Timesreported these as all being serious threats to Johnson being able to remain in his position.

Sunak was thought by some cabinet ministers to be "plotting against" Johnson.The Timesreported that his supporters were planning for him to lend votes to another candidate so that the foreign secretaryLiz Truss,seen as his main rival, would not reach the final two candidates.On 3 February 2022, when eight MPs had publicly announced that they had submitted letters of no confidence in Johnson, theFinancial Timesreported that "backbenchers estimate the actual number to be in the region of 30".After theSue Gray reportwas published on 25 May, several Tory MPs called for Johnson to resign. By 31 May 17 Conservative MPs had publicly announced they had sent in a letter of no confidence to the 1922 committee. Forty-one Conservative MPs questioning Johnson's position.The Timesreported that one rebel believed the true number of letters to be "up to 67", with another backbencher saying 190 MPs could vote against Johnson, enough to remove him.

Sue Gray report

In response to Partygate, theCabinet SecretaryandHead of the Home Civil ServiceSimon Caseinitiated and led an investigation into the allegations of partying during lockdown. A few days later herecusedhimself after it became known that an event had been held in his own office,and subsequentlySue Graytook over the investigation on whether Prime MinisterBoris Johnsonknew about and participated in gatherings at Downing Street.

Gray's initial findings were published on 31 January 2022.In the report, Gray condemned "a serious failure" in the standards of leadership, and also stated that a string of gatherings were "difficult to justify" while millions were unable to meet their friends and relatives.Publication of the full report was postponed pending the completion of an investigation by theMetropolitan Police.Gray's final report was delivered to Johnson on 25 May 2022and it was published later that morning.

Fixed penalty notices

On 25 January 2022, theMetropolitan Police's chief commander,Cressida Dick,announced that they were commencing investigations into the Downing Street Parties. Dick stated that "potential breaches of Covid-19 regulations" at Downing Street andWhitehallover the last two years would be looked into.On 12 April 2022 the police made a second batch of (at least 20) referrals to theACRO Criminal Records Officeoffixed penalty notices(FPN) of £50 for breaches of COVID-19 regulations.Downing Street later confirmed that Johnson, as well as his wife and Sunak would be receiving fines.Therefore, Johnson became the first ever serving prime minister to have been sanctioned for breaking the law whilst in office.The police reported in May 2022 that their inquiries had resulted in 126 FPNs being issued.Matt Fowler ofCovid-19 Bereaved Families for Justicesaid: "It's plain as day that there was a culture of boozing and rule breaching at the highest level of government, whilst the British public was making unimaginable sacrifices to protect their loved ones and communities".Keir Starmer called for Johnson to resign andEd Daveysuggested that Parliament be recalled to hold a no confidence vote in Johnson.

Jimmy Savile remarks relating to Keir Starmer

While speaking in the House of Commons on 31 January 2022, Johnson falsely blamed Starmer for the non-prosecution ofJimmy Savile,a DJ and television personality at the BBCwho was a serial child sex offender,when Starmer wasDirector of Public Prosecutions(DPP) in theCrown Prosecution Service(CPS). Starmer was DPP in the years immediately prior to Savile's death but there is no evidence he was involved in the decision to not have him prosecuted.Johnson was heavily criticised for the comment and his policy adviserMunira Mirzaresigned three days later, saying in her resignation letter that Johnson had made "a scurrilous accusation" against Starmer.Also on 3 February, during an interview withSky News,Johnson would not apologise for his comment and tried to defend it by stating that, in 2013, Starmer apologised because the CPS had not investigated Savile; however, Johnson then said: "I totally understand that he [Starmer] had nothing to do personally with those decisions".

On 7 February, while Starmer and his colleagueDavid Lammywere leaving Parliament, they were ambushed by a group of people who shouted abuse at Starmer including the words "traitor" and "Jimmy Savile". Two people, a man and a woman, were arrested after atraffic conewas thrown at police officers. Johnson tweeted that it was "absolutely disgraceful" and thanked the police for acting swiftly.Shayan Sardarizadeh forBBC Monitoringsaid that the protest was an attempt to recreate theOttawa "freedom convoy"protests in the UK, and noted that the activists' references toMagna Cartaindicated that the protesters were members of thesovereign citizen movement.Julian Smith,the formerchief whip,andSimon Hoarewere among Conservatives who called for Johnson to apologise. MPKim Leadbeaterand Brendan Cox, the sister and husband of murdered MPJo Cox,warned against politicians lending credence to far-right conspiracy theories.The following day, a Downing Street source said that Johnson still would not apologise for the slur against Starmer.

Following the incident when activists forced police to protect Starmer and Lammy extremists issued multiple death threats against Starmer and other Labour MPs. TheCenter for Countering Digital Hate(CCDH) sent material to theMetropolitan Police.Imran Ahmed of the CCDH stated, "Every time a violent extremist makes a threat of violence and gets away with it, the norms of those groups worsen, and others are driven to newer depths of behaviour."

Lebedev meetings

During aselect committeehearing on 6 July 2022, Boris Johnson confirmed that he had metAlexander Lebedev,a formerKGBagent,on 28 April 2018, when he wasForeign Secretary,without any officials present.The meeting took place at a villa inUmbria,Italy, belonging to Alexander Lebedev's sonEvgeny Lebedev,the day after aNATOsummit inBrussels,Belgium, in the aftermath of theSalisbury poisonings.On 29 April 2018, the day after the meeting,The Guardianreported that Johnson travelled to Italy without a police escort.Whilst inPerugia Airporton 29 April 2018, fellow passengers on his flight reported that Johnson was "looking like he had slept in his clothes" as well as "struggling to walk in a straight line and telling other passengers he had had a heavy night."The meeting drew questions around national security from theopposition.

While Johnson was theMayor of London,he took at least four trips to the villa of Evgeny Lebedev (aRussian-Britishbusinessman who owns Lebedev Holdings Ltd which owns theEvening StandardandThe Independent)with Johnson quoted in 2011 as saying that "I am proud to call him a friend".

In July 2020, Johnson nominated Evgeny Lebedev as across-bench peerin theHouse of Lordswhich drew criticism with suggestions ofcronyism.In March 2020, theHouse of Lords Appointments Commissionhad written to the Prime Minister advising him against granting Lebedev alifetime seatin the Lords because the appointment posed a national security risk.Concerns were also raised bysecurity services.In March 2020, two days after the initial rejection, Johnson was reported to have met Lebedev at his home.By June 2020,Cabinet Officeofficials advised that the security services no longer deemed his peerage as problematic and Lebedev assumed office into the House of Lords as a life peer on 17 December 2020.The Sunday Timesreported that Johnson had gone ahead with granting the peerage despite the security service assessment which Johnson subsequently denied.

Sex scandals

In mid-2022, four sex scandals involving Conservative MPs were reported in the media along with the conviction for sexual assault of another. These scandals provoked conversations regarding the behaviour and culture in Westminster.In particular, theChris Pincher scandalwas cited as a key contributor in theJuly 2022 United Kingdom government crisisand the subsequent resignation of Boris Johnson as the leader of the Conservative Party.

In April 2022,David Warburton,the ConservativeMember of Parliament(MP) forSomerton and Fromehad the Conservativewhipwithdrawn pending the outcome of an investigation by Parliament'sICGSinto allegations that hesexually harassedthree women. Following his suspension, he said he had not been notified of the details of the allegations by the ICGS but that he denied them.Warburton allegedly asked for cocaine to be bought. The woman complainant said he got into bed with her, naked. She alleged that he ground against her and groped her breasts after she stated repeatedly she did not want sex with him.

In May 2022, an unnamed Conservative MP was ordered to keep away from Parliament as he had been arrested on suspicion of rape and other crimes.The MP remains anonymous and has not yet been charged as of August 2022.

Imran Ahmad Khan

In 2021,Imran Ahmad Khan,the ConservativeMember of Parliament(MP) forWakefieldwas charged under theSexual Offences Act 2003with having sexually assaulted a 15-year-old boy in 2008. Ahmad Khan denied the accusation "in the strongest terms".In response to the charge, the Conservative Party suspended thewhippending the outcome of the prosecution.On 11 April 2022, following a week-long trial in theSouthwark Crown Court,he was convicted ofsexual assault.The Conservative Party expelled Ahmad Khan from the party following the conviction.Heresigned as an MPon 3 May and was jailed for 18 months on 23 May.

Neil Parish

On 29 AprilNeil Parish,the ConservativeMember of Parliament(MP) forTiverton and Honitonhad the Conservativewhip withdrawnafter being accused of watching pornography on a personal mobile phone in theCommons chamber.Parish referred himself to theCommons Select Committee on Standardsfollowing the removal of the whip.The allegation was made by a female Conservative minister, and later corroborated by another unnamed MP.

Initially, Parish said that he might have viewed the pornography by mistake.He subsequently told the BBC that he had watched pornography in the Palace of Westminster on two occasions, first accidentally and then deliberately. He said that he had been initially looking at a website about tractors.According to Parish, he then reached "another website with a very similar name" and "watched for a bit". He said: "My crime – biggest crime – is that on another occasion I went in a second time... that was [while] sitting waiting to vote."

On 30 April 2022, Parish announced his intention toresign as an MP,which triggered the2022 Tiverton and Honiton by-electionon 23 June 2022.On 4 May, he was appointed asCrown Steward and Bailiff of the Manor of Northstead,disqualifying him as an MP and vacating his seat.

Chris Pincher

Main articles:Chris Pincher scandalandJuly 2022 United Kingdom government crisis

On 30 June 2022,Chris Pincher,the ConservativeMember of Parliament(MP) forTamworthresigned as a Government Deputy Chief Whip after he admitted he had "drunk far too much" the night before at theCarlton Club,a private members' club, inSt James's,London, and having "embarrassed myself and other people".It was alleged that he had groped two men.He was suspended as a Conservative MPbut stayed in Parliament as an independent until his resignation as an MP in September 2023.

On 3 July 2022, six new allegations against Pincher emerged, involving behaviour over a decade. Three complaints are that Pincher made unwanted advances against other male MPs, one in a bar at the House of Commons and one in Pincher's parliamentary office. One complainant reportedly gave Downing Street details in February and expressed concerns over Pincher becoming a whip in charge of other MPs' welfare. Pincher maintained he had no intention of resigning as an MP.

In the following days, it emerged that Johnson had been briefed about Pincher's alleged misconduct in 2017, which Johnson had initially denied.Johnson was also alleged, by his former aidDominic Cummings,to have described him as "Pincher by name, pincher by nature."On 5 July, the ex-top civil servantSimon McDonaldpublished a letter to the Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards stating that the claim there had been no previous official complaints against Pincher were untrue.These false denials by Johnson and Pincher's appointment to deputy chief whip in spite of his historytriggered a political scandal,which evolved intoa government crisisresulted in Johnson announcing his intention to resign as Conservative Party leader and prime minister on 7 July 2022.Pincher continued to sit as an MP for another year, but did not make any further contributions in the House of Commons.

June 2022 confidence vote

Main article:2022 vote of confidence in the Conservative Party leadership of Boris Johnson

On 6 June 2022, the publication of theSue Gray reportintoPartygateand a widespread sense of general dissatisfaction towards Johnson's leadership among Conservative MPs for various disparate reasons, led to avote of confidenceamong his Conservative colleagues.Graham Bradyannounced that the threshold of 54 letters of no confidence had been met and that a vote of confidence in Johnson would be held in the evening of the same day.A majority of Conservative MPs voted confidence in Johnson to continue as party leader. More than 40% of Conservative MPs voted no confidence, whichThe Guardiandescribed as "a larger than expected rebellion".

Confidence vote of Boris Johnson
Ballot →		6 June 2022
	Confidence	211 / 359 (59%)
	No confidence	148 / 359 (41%)

Government crisis and resignation as leader

Main articles:July 2022 United Kingdom government crisisandJuly–September 2022 Conservative Party leadership election

Johnson announces his resignation outside 10 Downing Street on 7 July 2022; he left office on 6 September.

In late June 2022, the Conservative MPChris Pincherresigned asdeputy chief government whipafter allegations were made that he had groped two men.Johnson initially refused to suspend the whip from him, and his spokesperson defended his initial appointment, saying Johnson had not been aware of allegations against him.More allegations of groping were made against Pincher. The former permanent secretary to the foreign officeSimon McDonaldwrote that Johnson had been personally briefed on previous allegations against Pincher in 2019.On 4 July, Johnson admitted that he had known about allegations at the time he appointed him.Several ministers resigned on 5 July, including thechancellor of the ExchequerSunak and thehealth secretaryJavid.Several politicians who had been discussed as potential leadership candidates, including Truss, expressed their continuing support for Johnson.The journalistTim Shipmanwrote inThe Timesthat the transport secretaryGrant Shapps,who had kept records of supporters in the earlier confidence vote, told Johnson that he could only guarantee 28 votes of confidence if a new vote were called.

Johnson appointed the prospective leadership candidateNadhim Zahawias chancellor, with reports that Zahawi had threatened to resign unless he were given the role.He appointedMichelle Donelanas education secretary, Zahawi's previous role.Many more ministers resigned on 6 July.Several Conservative MPs, including thelevelling-up secretaryGove, told Johnson he should resign.Johnson fired Gove the same day, citing disloyalty.The next day, Zahawi and Donelan called for Johnson to resign, with Donelan herself resigning from the cabinet.A poll byYouGovshowed that 59% of Conservative Party members wanted Johnson to resign.Johnson announced his pending resignation on the same day, 7 July, saying a new leader would take office before October 2022.He would stay on as prime minister until his successor's election. Several Conservative MPs said he should step down as prime minister, and Starmer said he would call a parliamentaryvote of no-confidencein the government if Johnson did not quickly resign as prime minister.

At Prime Minister's Questions on 13 July 2022, Johnson said that he would leave office "with my head held high."After the Labour Party called for a motion of no confidence, Johnson's government called avote of confidence in itself,which they won. At his last Prime Minister's Questions, Johnson asked his successor to "stick by the Americans" and "stand by the Ukrainians," and quotedArnold Schwarzenegger's "Hasta la vista, baby"catchphrase from the filmTerminator 2: Judgment Day(1991) before receiving a standing ovation.Following theJuly–September 2022 Conservative Party leadership election,Johnson was succeeded as prime minister byLiz Truss,his foreign secretary.

Post-premiership

Johnson during his last day as prime minister on 6 September 2022

After stepping down as party leader and prime minister, Johnson reverted to being an ordinary backbench MP.Following thedeath of Queen Elizabeth II,Johnson took part inCharles III'sAccession Council,and many other funeral-related events.Johnson has given several speeches since the end of his premiership. In December 2022, it was reported that Johnson had made £1m from speeches since his resignation.

October 2022 leadership election

See also:October 2022 Conservative Party leadership election

After Truss announced her resignation as Conservative Party leader on 20 October 2022, Johnson sought support from MPs to run in the subsequentleadership election,and received support from several cabinet members.Three days later, he announced that he would not stand, stating that he would not have enough support from MPs to govern effectively.

After his former chancellorRishi Sunakwas elected unopposed as party leader and prime minister, Johnson congratulated him and urged Conservatives to give Sunak "their full and wholehearted support.

Resignation from Parliament

Johnson still faced aPrivileges Committeeinvestigation as to whether he deliberately misled Parliament over parties during Covid lockdowns.After receiving a draft of the investigation's report, he resigned from Parliament.The committee found that Johnson had deliberately misled MPs and therefore concluded that he had committed contempt of Parliament.The recommendation from the committee was to suspend the former Prime Minister for more than ten days.Johnson subsequently accused the committee of a witch hunt against him.Following Johnson's reaction to the report, including "impugning the committee", they added that they would have recommended a suspension of 90 days instead.His resignation triggered aby-electionin his seat.

International prime ministerial trips

Johnson and Trump in New York City, 24 September 2019.

Main article:List of international prime ministerial trips made by Boris Johnson

Johnson made 26 trips to 18 countries during his premiership. The number of visits per country:

• One visit toFinland,India,Ireland,Italy,Luxembourg,Oman,Rwanda,Saudi Arabia,SpainandSweden.
• Two visits toEstonia,France,Poland,theUAEand theUnited States.
• Four visits toGermanyandUkraine.
• Five visits toBelgium.

See also

• 2010s in United Kingdom history
• 2020s in United Kingdom history
• Politics of the United Kingdom
• Boris Johnson as Foreign Secretary

Sources

• Edwards, Giles; Isaby, Jonathan (2008).Boris v. Ken:How Boris Johnson Won London.London: Politico's.ISBN978-1-84275-225-8.
• Fetzer, Thiemo (26 October 2021)."Subsidising the spread of COVID-19: Evidence from the UK'S Eat-Out-to-Help-Out Scheme*".The Economic Journal.132(643):1200–1217.doi:10.1093/ej/ueab074.ISSN0013-0133.PMC8574521.
• Gimson, Andrew(2012).Boris: The Rise of Boris Johnson(2nd ed.).Simon & Schuster.
• Hutton, Georgina (22 December 2020).Eat Out to Help Out Scheme(PDF)(Report).
• Purnell, Sonia(2011).Just Boris: Boris Johnson: The Irresistible Rise of a Political Celebrity.London: Aurum Press Ltd.ISBN978-1-84513-665-9.

Further reading

• Arbuthnott, George, and Calvert, Jonathan,Failures of State: The Inside Story of Britain's Battle with Coronavirus(HarperCollins,2021).
• Charmley, John (2020). "Churchill or Chamberlain? Boris Johnson is facing a national crisis like few other prime ministers. Which of his predecessors will he draw comparisons with?".History Today.70(6):90–93.
• Freedman, Lawrence D (2020). "Britain Adrift: The United Kingdom's Search for a Post-Brexit Role".Foreign Affairs.39(3):118–130.
• Heppell, Timothy; McMeeking, Thomas (2021). "The Conservative Party Leadership Transition from Theresa May to Boris Johnson: Party Popularity and Leadership Satisfaction".Representation.57(1):59–73.doi:10.1080/00344893.2020.1778512.S2CID225753305.
• MacMillan, Catherine. "Lords of Misrule? Carnivalesque Populism in the Brexit Discourse of Nigel Farage and Boris Johnson."MCES-2020: 59online.
• O'Toole, Fintan, "The King of Little England",The New York Review of Books,68#10 (10 June 2021), pp. 44–46.
• Prosser, Christopher (2021). "The end of the EU affair: the UK general election of 2019".West European Politics.44(2):450–461.doi:10.1080/01402382.2020.1773640.S2CID225671837.
• Römer, Felix. "Boris Johnson, Thatcherism and the rhetoric of'wealth creators'."Renewal(0968252X) 28.2 (2020).
• Schwarz, Bill. "Boris Johnson's Conservatism: an insurrection against political reason? Boris Johnson's newly adopted persona as embodiment of the people's will represents another step along the road towards a very English populism."Soundings(13626620). (Winter2019/2020), Issue 73, pp 12–23.
• Smith, Julie (2021). "COVID-19, Brexit and the United Kingdom – a year of uncertainty".Round Table.110(1):62–75.doi:10.1080/00358533.2021.1875686.S2CID231955421.