Thursday, 7 July 2022
Boris Johnson's standing down as prime minister - South West London and North Surrey reactions
Downing Street says he'll make a statement to the country today.
It's understood he'll remain in post until the Conservative Party's elected his successor over the summer.
Appearing before MPs yesterday, Mr Johnson was adamant he wouldn't quit.
His resignation follows the release of a letter from his new chancellor - telling him to 'go now'.
Nadhim Zahawi told his boss the situation was 'not sustainable'.
That comes just hours after the PM’s aide James Duddridge says the newly appointed chancellor was "solidly behind" their boss.
Over 50 members of Mr Johnson's government had resigned within two days.
Croydon South MP Chris Philp was one of the last to resign, stepping down as minister for Tech and the Digital economy.
Wimbledon Tory MP Stephen Hammond also said that he had resubmitted his letter of no confidence.
The mass rebellion began on Tuesday, when Downing Street admitted the PM knew about allegations of inappropriate behaviour against Chris Pincher - before he promoted him to deputy chief whip.
A delegation of MPs then spoke to the PM about his position, which is believed to have included Spelthorne MP Kwasi Kwarteng.
Deputy PM and Esher MP Dominic Raab is believed to have stayed loyal to Mr Johnson until the end.
Sutton MP Paul Scully didn’t resign his post as small business minister, saying “I've tried to do the right thing for the country as calmly as possible during this chaotic time. Whilst pushing for change, government also has a responsibility to keep functioning with some continuity”
Speaking before it was understood Mr Johnson will resign, attorney general Suella Braverman said he should step down.
She says she will stand to replace him.
Liberal Democrat leader and Kingston MP Sir Ed Davey says “the stain on the Conservative Party can't be removed that easily.”
Sir Keir Starmer says “we need a proper change of government” and “We need a fresh start for Britain”
The value of the pound's responded to the news of Mr Johnson's imminent resignation.
It's trading around a quarter of a percent higher against both the dollar and euro
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 10:15 am
