The UK government has collapsed after two top ministers, Rishi Sunak and Sajid Javid, resigned in protest of Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s leadership. Sunak, the Chancellor of the Exchequer, and Javid, the Health Secretary, both said that they could no longer support Johnson after a series of scandals and controversies.
Their resignations have triggered a wave of departures from the government, with more than 40 ministers and aides quitting their posts in just two days. Johnson is facing a growing number of calls to resign, and it is unclear whether he will be able to stay in office.
The collapse of the UK government is a major political crisis. It comes at a time when the country is facing a number of challenges, including the cost of living crisis and the war in Ukraine. The political instability could make it more difficult for the government to address these challenges.
Here are some of the key events that led to the collapse of the UK government:
- Partygate scandal: In 2020 and 2021, Johnson and other government officials were found to have attended parties and social gatherings during the COVID-19 pandemic, in violation of lockdown rules.
- Pincher scandal: In July 2022, it was revealed that Johnson had appointed Chris Pincher as Deputy Chief Whip despite knowing that Pincher had been accused of sexual misconduct.
- Loss of confidence: The scandals and controversies have led to a loss of confidence in Johnson’s leadership. A recent poll found that 72% of Britons believe that Johnson should resign.
The collapse of the UK government is a significant event. It remains to be seen whether Johnson will be able to stay in office, or whether the government will be dissolved and new elections called.
Here is Boris Johnson’s statement after stepping down on July 9, 2023
“It is with deep sadness that I resign as Leader of the Conservative Party and Prime Minister.
“I want to thank the millions of people who voted for us in 2019 and the millions more who have supported our policies over the last three years.
“I want to thank my colleagues for all their hard work and dedication, and I want to thank the British people for the immense privilege that they have given me.
“Our country faces huge challenges, but I know that we will get through them.
“We will build back better from the pandemic, and we will unite and level up our country.
“We will get through this together.”
Johnson’s statement was delivered outside 10 Downing Street, the official residence of the British Prime Minister. He was flanked by his wife, Carrie Johnson, and their two young children.
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