Boris Johnson will be deployed to campaign for the Tories in the Red Wall at the next general election amid warnings the party could be 'wiped out'. Watch in for more details!

UK: Boris Johnson to campaign for Tories in General Election comeback

Boris Johnson will be deployed to campaign for the Tories in the Red Wall at the next general election amid warnings the party could be 'wiped out'.

UK: Boris Johnson expected to make a general election comeback

UK: Boris Johnson set for big general election comeback

UK: Boris Johnson to campaign for Tories in Red Wall seats

Ahead of the British elections, there seems to be no end to the troubles in the Tory campaign. The Housing Secretary Michael Gove has now pushed for the return of former Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

Michael Gove wants Boris Johnson to frontline Tories poll campaign

Ahead of the general elections in Britain there seem to be no end to the trouble in the Tories camp. The housing secretary Michael Gove has now pushed forth for the return of the former British prime minister Boris Johnson to lead the Tories into yet another election. Watch to know more!

UK Elections 2024: Boris Johnson to lead Tories in elections?

<p>In a startling endorsement of Republican presidential frontrunner Donald Trump, former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson claimed that there is "little doubt" that the world was safer and more stable when Trump served as the US president.</p>

<p>Johnson's comments came when he was speaking to the UK's Sun newspaper at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) in Washington.</p>

<p>"When you look back at Trump’s last term in office there is little doubt that the world felt safer and calmer and more stable," Johnson told the newspaper.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During Trump's years in power, the Abraham Accords were signed by the leaders of Israel, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Bahrain under which the latter two countries normalised their ties with Israel in a major step towards a semblance of stability in West Asia.</p>

<p>He added: "Right now much of the world is craving the stability that goes with strong and decisive American leadership."</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Tucker Carlson: Boris Johnson demanded $1 million for interview</strong></p>

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<p>Johnson in the recent past has urged Trump and his supporters not to abandon Ukraine's war effort against the Russian offensive which is set to enter its third year later this weekend. Trump, however, has indicated the withdrawal of US military aid to Ukraine if he returns to power after the November US elections.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier, in an opinion article for the Daily Mail in January, Johnson argued that a Trump presidency is exactly "what the world needs" right now if he supports Ukraine amid its war against Russia.</p>

<p>In his column, Johnson wrote that the global 'wokerati' feared a Trump victory. Woke is a slang term often used to slam individuals with perceptively hyper-liberal sensibilities.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-like-his-style-boris-johnson-says-another-trump-as-next-us-president-will-be-big-win-for-the-world-681827">‘I like his style’: Boris Johnson says Trump as next US president will be ‘big win for the world’</a></strong></p>

<p>"In the cocktail parties of Davos, I am told, the global wokerati have been trembling so violently that you could hear the ice tinkling in their negronis," he wrote, in a reference to the World Economic Forum (WEF) meet in Switzerland's Davos.</p>

<p>The Republic frontrunner recently sparked panic across the European capitals after he said he would "encourage" aggressors to "do whatever the hell they want" with NATO countries that fail to spend enough on their defense.</p>

<p>"A lot of nice well-meaning people are quivering like smacked blancmanges at the idea of a new Trump presidency, I am not quite sure why they are so alarmed," Johnson told the Sun.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In a startling endorsement of Republican presidential frontrunner Donald Trump, former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson claimed that there is "little doubt" that the world was safer and more stable when Trump served as the US president.

In a startling endorsement of Republican presidential frontrunner Donald Trump, former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson claimed that there is "little doubt" that the world was safer and more stable when Trump served as the US president. Johnson's comments came when he was speaking to the UK's Sun newspaper at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) in Washington. "When you look back at Trump’s last term in office there is little doubt that the world felt safer and calmer and more stable," Johnson told the newspaper. During Trump's years in power, the Abraham Accords were signed by the leaders of Israel, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Bahrain under which the latter two countries normalised their ties with Israel in a major step towards a semblance of stability in West Asia. He added: "Right now much of the world is craving the stability that goes with strong and decisive American leadership." Also watch | Tucker Carlson: Boris Johnson demanded $1 million for interview × Johnson in the recent past has urged Trump and his supporters not to abandon Ukraine's war effort against the Russian offensive which is set to enter its third year later this weekend. Trump, however, has indicated the withdrawal of US military aid to Ukraine if he returns to power after the November US elections. Earlier, in an opinion article for the Daily Mail in January, Johnson argued that a Trump presidency is exactly "what the world needs" right now if he supports Ukraine amid its war against Russia. In his column, Johnson wrote that the global 'wokerati' feared a Trump victory. Woke is a slang term often used to slam individuals with perceptively hyper-liberal sensibilities. Also read | ‘I like his style’: Boris Johnson says Trump as next US president will be ‘big win for the world’ "In the cocktail parties of Davos, I am told, the global wokerati have been trembling so violently that you could hear the ice tinkling in their negronis," he wrote, in a reference to the World Economic Forum (WEF) meet in Switzerland's Davos. The Republic frontrunner recently sparked panic across the European capitals after he said he would "encourage" aggressors to "do whatever the hell they want" with NATO countries that fail to spend enough on their defense. "A lot of nice well-meaning people are quivering like smacked blancmanges at the idea of a new Trump presidency, I am not quite sure why they are so alarmed," Johnson told the Sun. (With inputs from agencies)

Ex-UK PM Boris Johnson says world was 'safer and more stable' when Trump was US president

Is former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson set to make a political comeback? The British prime minister Rishi Sunak social media post on Kyiv's 2-year anniversary has sparked renewed questions about Boris Johnson's role in the tories's forthcoming general election campaign. Watch to know more!

UK: Will Boris Johnson make a comeback ahead of General elections?

Tucker Carlson and Boris Johnson have engaged in a verbal dispute amid reports that the former prime minister was willing to pay $1 million to speak with the controversial right-wing journalist.

Tucker Carlson: Boris Johnson demanded $1 million for interview

In a big embarrassment to British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, his Conservative party has lost two seats to the Labour Party in a key by-election. This comes after UK slipped into recession, again, under Sunak's leadership. Some Tories now want Former Prime Minister Boris Johnson to come back. Will Sunak make way?

Gravitas: Is Boris Johnson making a comeback?

In more trouble for UK prime minister Rishi Sunak another conservative face is gaining popularity over him. Many Tory MPSs are backing former UK prime minister Boris Johnson asking Sunak to bring him back if he wants the conservative party to stay in power.

UK: Tory MPs urge Rishi Sunak to bring back Boris Johnson

UK PM Rishi Sunak opens the door to Boris Johnson's political comeback and tells of his pride in their time working together. Sunak admits there are "well-documented differences" between them but revealed he talked to his former boss just a few months ago.

UK PM Rishi Sunak opens door to Boris Johnson

<p>Former UK prime pinister Boris Johnson has backed Donald Trump's bid for the White House. Johnson said that the former president and Republican frontrunner as US president is "just what the world needs".&nbsp;</p>

<p>In his weekly Daily Mail column, Johnson hailed Trump as a deterrent to Russian President Vladimir Putin in context of Russian actions in Ukraine since February 2022. Johnson said that Trump's&nbsp;renewed leadership "can be a big win for the world".</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-says-boris-johnson-plays-spoilsport-to-derail-peace-deal-with-ukraine-680854">Putin says Boris Johnson played spoilsport as UK PM, derailed peace deal with Ukraine</a></strong></p>

<p>Johnson said,&nbsp;"What the world needs now is a US leader whose willingness to use force and sheer unpredictability is a major deterrent to the enemies of the west.”</p>

<h2><strong>Trump will not ditch Ukrainians: Boris Johnson</strong></h2>

<p>Johnson wrote: "I simply cannot believe that Trump will ditch the Ukrainians; on the contrary, having worked out, as he surely has, that there is no deal to be done with Putin, I reckon there is a good chance that he will double down and finish what he started – by giving them what they need to win."</p>

<p><b>Also watch |&nbsp;Former UK PM Boris Johnson denies Covid allegations, 'Partygate' horrors for Johnson | WION</b></p>

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<p>"If that is the case, then there is every chance, under Trump, that the West will be stronger, and the world more stable."</p>

<h2><strong>Global ‘wokerati’ is trembling,&nbsp;fearing Trump’s White House return: Johnson</strong></h2>

<p>In his column, Johnson wrote that the global 'wokerati'&nbsp;feared a Trump victory. Woke is a slang term often used to slam individuals with perceptively hyper-liberal sensibilities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In the cocktail parties of Davos, I am told, the global wokerati have been trembling so violently that you could hear the ice tinkling in their negronis," he wrote, in a reference to the World Economic Forum (WEF) meet in Switzerland's Davos.</p>

<p>Johnson, however, conceded that the former Republican president has "been caught saying a few unguarded things".</p>

<p>"I suppose he has been caught saying a few unguarded things — but who hasn’t? He who is without sin in this department, let him cast the first stone," Johnson wrote.</p>

<p>"As it happens I have always found him, personally, a model of old-fashioned courtesy and good ­manners. I must confess the truth: I like his style. I like the vaguely African dance he does at his rallies, and I laugh at his essentially good-natured parodies of French president Emmanuel Macron and Biden," he added.&nbsp;</p>


Former UK prime pinister Boris Johnson has backed Donald Trump's bid for the White House. Johnson said that the former president and Republican frontrunner as US president is "just what the world needs".

Former UK prime pinister Boris Johnson has backed Donald Trump's bid for the White House. Johnson said that the former president and Republican frontrunner as US president is "just what the world needs". In his weekly Daily Mail column, Johnson hailed Trump as a deterrent to Russian President Vladimir Putin in context of Russian actions in Ukraine since February 2022. Johnson said that Trump's renewed leadership "can be a big win for the world". Also read | Putin says Boris Johnson played spoilsport as UK PM, derailed peace deal with Ukraine Johnson said, "What the world needs now is a US leader whose willingness to use force and sheer unpredictability is a major deterrent to the enemies of the west.” Trump will not ditch Ukrainians: Boris Johnson Johnson wrote: "I simply cannot believe that Trump will ditch the Ukrainians; on the contrary, having worked out, as he surely has, that there is no deal to be done with Putin, I reckon there is a good chance that he will double down and finish what he started – by giving them what they need to win." Also watch | Former UK PM Boris Johnson denies Covid allegations, 'Partygate' horrors for Johnson | WION × "If that is the case, then there is every chance, under Trump, that the West will be stronger, and the world more stable." Global ‘wokerati’ is trembling, fearing Trump’s White House return: Johnson In his column, Johnson wrote that the global 'wokerati' feared a Trump victory. Woke is a slang term often used to slam individuals with perceptively hyper-liberal sensibilities. "In the cocktail parties of Davos, I am told, the global wokerati have been trembling so violently that you could hear the ice tinkling in their negronis," he wrote, in a reference to the World Economic Forum (WEF) meet in Switzerland's Davos. Johnson, however, conceded that the former Republican president has "been caught saying a few unguarded things". "I suppose he has been caught saying a few unguarded things — but who hasn’t? He who is without sin in this department, let him cast the first stone," Johnson wrote. "As it happens I have always found him, personally, a model of old-fashioned courtesy and good manners. I must confess the truth: I like his style. I like the vaguely African dance he does at his rallies, and I laugh at his essentially good-natured parodies of French president Emmanuel Macron and Biden," he added.

‘I like his style’: Boris Johnson says Trump as next US president will be ‘big win for the world’

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin said that it is impossible for his administration to "abandon the territorial gains" made during nearly two years since February 2022. Putin on Tuesday warned that Ukraine's statehood could suffer an "irreparable and very serious blow" if the war continues and that peace with Kyiv could not be achieved because the then-British Prime Minister Boris Johnson played a spoilsport.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Putin made the remarks during a televised meeting with the heads of Russian municipalities. The Russian president who is seeking re-election during presidential elections in March, claimed that the country's forces were winning the war in Ukraine.</p>

<p>Putin's comments came hours after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky virtually told the World Economic Forum in Davos that he was against a ceasefire in the war at this time, and called for a decisive win for his country to conclusively end the conflict.</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine's counteroffensive has 'failed': Vladimir Putin</strong></h2>

<p>Putin said that Ukraine's much-watched and equally anticipated counteroffensive launched in June had "failed," and that "the initiative is in the hands of the Russian Armed Forces."</p>

<p>"If this continues, Ukraine's statehood may face an irreparable and very serious blow," Putin added.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas | Russia, Ukraine, to West Asia Crisis: Is this the beginning of World War III?</strong></p>

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<p>"The so-called 'peace formula' that's being talked about in the West and in Ukraine is a continuation of the decree of the Ukrainian president banning negotiations with Russia," Putin said, as per Sputnik. "As for the negotiating process, it's an attempt to encourage us to abandon the territorial gains we've achieved over the past 1 1/2 years. But this is impossible. Everyone understands that this is impossible."</p>

<h2><strong>Putin's big claim on peace deal with Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>Putin repeated the claim that Ukraine signed a peace treaty with Russia in the spring of 2022, then threw it into the 'garbage of history'.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-says-ukraine-signed-peace-treaty-with-russia-in-spring-of-2022-then-threw-it-into-garbage-of-history-605673">Putin says Ukraine signed peace treaty with Russia in spring of 2022, then threw it into 'garbage of history'</a></strong></p>

<p>Referring to the purported deal made in Turkey early on during the war, Putin said: "A day later, they threw all the agreements into the trash, and now they are saying publicly—including the head of the Ukrainian negotiating group—that 'Yes, we were ready, but we missed the chance because then-Prime Minister of Britain [Boris] Johnson came and persuaded us not to implement these agreements.'"</p>

<p>He continued: "Fools, are they not? They're admitting directly that if they had gone for it, everything could have been ended a long time ago, one and a half&nbsp;years ago."</p>

<p>Putin also denounced Kyiv for what he claimed were intentional hits on civilian infrastructure, a claim that Ukraine has made against his forces after Russian assaults.</p>

<p>"But instead of solving military tasks, they are acting in this barbaric way, striking peaceful settlements using indiscriminate weapons. Multiple launch rocket systems are simply used to hit wide areas," Putin said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Russian President Vladimir Putin said that it is impossible for his administration to "abandon the territorial gains" made during nearly two years since February 2022.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said that it is impossible for his administration to "abandon the territorial gains" made during nearly two years since February 2022. Putin on Tuesday warned that Ukraine's statehood could suffer an "irreparable and very serious blow" if the war continues and that peace with Kyiv could not be achieved because the then-British Prime Minister Boris Johnson played a spoilsport. Putin made the remarks during a televised meeting with the heads of Russian municipalities. The Russian president who is seeking re-election during presidential elections in March, claimed that the country's forces were winning the war in Ukraine. Putin's comments came hours after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky virtually told the World Economic Forum in Davos that he was against a ceasefire in the war at this time, and called for a decisive win for his country to conclusively end the conflict. Ukraine's counteroffensive has 'failed': Vladimir Putin Putin said that Ukraine's much-watched and equally anticipated counteroffensive launched in June had "failed," and that "the initiative is in the hands of the Russian Armed Forces." "If this continues, Ukraine's statehood may face an irreparable and very serious blow," Putin added. Also watch | Gravitas | Russia, Ukraine, to West Asia Crisis: Is this the beginning of World War III? × "The so-called 'peace formula' that's being talked about in the West and in Ukraine is a continuation of the decree of the Ukrainian president banning negotiations with Russia," Putin said, as per Sputnik. "As for the negotiating process, it's an attempt to encourage us to abandon the territorial gains we've achieved over the past 1 1/2 years. But this is impossible. Everyone understands that this is impossible." Putin's big claim on peace deal with Ukraine Putin repeated the claim that Ukraine signed a peace treaty with Russia in the spring of 2022, then threw it into the 'garbage of history'. Also read | Putin says Ukraine signed peace treaty with Russia in spring of 2022, then threw it into 'garbage of history' Referring to the purported deal made in Turkey early on during the war, Putin said: "A day later, they threw all the agreements into the trash, and now they are saying publicly—including the head of the Ukrainian negotiating group—that 'Yes, we were ready, but we missed the chance because then-Prime Minister of Britain [Boris] Johnson came and persuaded us not to implement these agreements.'" He continued: "Fools, are they not? They're admitting directly that if they had gone for it, everything could have been ended a long time ago, one and a half years ago." Putin also denounced Kyiv for what he claimed were intentional hits on civilian infrastructure, a claim that Ukraine has made against his forces after Russian assaults. "But instead of solving military tasks, they are acting in this barbaric way, striking peaceful settlements using indiscriminate weapons. Multiple launch rocket systems are simply used to hit wide areas," Putin said. (With inputs from agencies)

Putin says Boris Johnson played spoilsport as UK PM, derailed peace deal with Ukraine

Penny Mordaunt: Boris Johnson’s messages vanished from my phone. MP tells COVID inquiry that then prime minister's chief of staff ignored repeated attempts to discuss matter.

Penny Mordaunt claims messages from Boris Johnson 'vanished'

<p>British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak expressed profound regret during an official inquiry into the UK's Covid&nbsp;response, and extended&nbsp;apologies to the bereaved families and those who suffered due to the pandemic.</p>

<p>Sunak, relatively unknown before becoming finance minister amid the pandemic&nbsp;onset, stressed on&nbsp;the importance of deriving lessons from the crisis to enhance the country's preparedness for future challenges.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-2">"I just wanted to start by saying how deeply sorry I am to all of those who lost loved ones, family members through the pandemic and also all those who suffered in the various different ways throughout the pandemic and as a result of the actions that were taken," he said.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-3">"It's important that we learn the lessons so that we can be better prepared in the future," the prime minister added.</p>

<p>Sunak's apology extended to all who lost loved ones and those who endured various hardships.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-govt-introduces-tighter-worker-visa-rules-rishi-sunak-dubs-it-radical-666459">Also read |&nbsp;UK govt introduces tighter work visa rules, Rishi Sunak calls it ‘radical measure’ to curb immigration</a></p>

<h2><strong>Inquiry into UK's COVID-19 response</strong></h2>

<p>The ongoing COVID inquiry in Britain scrutinises the nation's handling of the pandemic, bringing to light chaotic scenes in the government under then-Prime Minister Boris Johnson. The pandemic was marked by alleged&nbsp;incompetence, internal strife, and misogyny.</p>

<p>While Sunak earned praise for managing pandemic fallout as finance minister, questions have arisen about whether his economic focus potentially compromised public health, with claims that he allegedly suggested "just let people die."</p>

<p>Officials and scientists question whether Sunak's emphasis on reopening the economy might have, inadvertently, taken a toll on public health measures, prompting a reevaluation of the economic-centric approach.</p>

<h2><strong>'Eat out to Help Out'&nbsp;scheme under fire</strong></h2>

<p>The inquiry is likely to scrutinise Sunak's "Eat out to Help Out" subsidised meal initiative in August 2020, aimed at boosting spending in the hospitality sector, with concerns raised about its potential contribution to a surge in infections.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;UK: Rishi Sunak to be questioned at Covid inquiry, was Finance Minister at the time&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>Scientists have questioned the scheme's role in potentially instigating&nbsp;a wave of infections, adding a layer of complexity to the inquiry's examination of policies enacted during critical phases of the pandemic.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak expressed profound regret during an official inquiry into the UK's Covid response, and extended apologies to the bereaved families and those who suffered due to the pandemic.

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak expressed profound regret during an official inquiry into the UK's Covid response, and extended apologies to the bereaved families and those who suffered due to the pandemic. Sunak, relatively unknown before becoming finance minister amid the pandemic onset, stressed on the importance of deriving lessons from the crisis to enhance the country's preparedness for future challenges. "I just wanted to start by saying how deeply sorry I am to all of those who lost loved ones, family members through the pandemic and also all those who suffered in the various different ways throughout the pandemic and as a result of the actions that were taken," he said. "It's important that we learn the lessons so that we can be better prepared in the future," the prime minister added. Sunak's apology extended to all who lost loved ones and those who endured various hardships. Also read | UK govt introduces tighter work visa rules, Rishi Sunak calls it ‘radical measure’ to curb immigration Inquiry into UK's COVID-19 response The ongoing COVID inquiry in Britain scrutinises the nation's handling of the pandemic, bringing to light chaotic scenes in the government under then-Prime Minister Boris Johnson. The pandemic was marked by alleged incompetence, internal strife, and misogyny. While Sunak earned praise for managing pandemic fallout as finance minister, questions have arisen about whether his economic focus potentially compromised public health, with claims that he allegedly suggested "just let people die." Officials and scientists question whether Sunak's emphasis on reopening the economy might have, inadvertently, taken a toll on public health measures, prompting a reevaluation of the economic-centric approach. 'Eat out to Help Out' scheme under fire The inquiry is likely to scrutinise Sunak's "Eat out to Help Out" subsidised meal initiative in August 2020, aimed at boosting spending in the hospitality sector, with concerns raised about its potential contribution to a surge in infections. Also watch | UK: Rishi Sunak to be questioned at Covid inquiry, was Finance Minister at the time Scientists have questioned the scheme's role in potentially instigating a wave of infections, adding a layer of complexity to the inquiry's examination of policies enacted during critical phases of the pandemic. (With inputs from agencies)

UK PM Rishi Sunak apologises to bereaved families in Covid inquiry, slammed for prioritising economy

Rishi Sunak argued that ministers should let Covid "rip a bit" according to a damning diary extract disclosed to the Covid Inquiry.

UK: Rishi Sunak to be questioned at Covid inquiry, was Finance Minister at the time | WION

Former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said that suggestions that he wanted to allow the Covid-19 virus to 'rip through population' were completely wrong. He refuted the portrayal of partying in downing street during the second day of public questioning calling it 'absurd'.

Former UK PM Boris Johnson denies Covid allegations, 'Partygate' horrors for Johnson | WION

Partygate scandal: Former UK PM Boris Johnson hits 'dramatic representations' | Day 2 of hearing

<p>Former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Wednesday (December 6) gave his most explicit apology for his government's handling of the coronavirus pandemic. Speaking at the United Kingdom's public COVID-19 inquiry, he said that his government had been too complacent and "vastly underestimated" the risks posed by the deadly virus.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, his attempts to apologise were met by heckling from demonstrators, who lost their loved ones during the COVID-19 pandemic.</p>

<h2><strong>Too little too late?</strong></h2>

<p>UK's PA Media news agency&nbsp;reports that as Johnson began to say his apologies, four people holding signs "the dead can't hear your apologies" stood up.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boris-johnson-deeply-sorry-to-families-of-covid-victims-during-inquiry-into-britains-handling-of-pandemic-666817">Boris Johnson says 'deeply sorry' to families of Covid victims at inquiry into Britain's handling of pandemic</a></strong></p>

<p>One of them, Kathryn Butcher, who lost her sister-in-law Myrna Saunders to Covid, told the UK news agency: "We didn't want his apology. When he tried to apologise, we stood up. We didn't block anybody. We were told to sit down."</p>

<p>Videos of people heckling him as he left the courtroom are circulating on social media, where people can be heard shouting at him.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Boris Johnson ducks the media and is heckled by protesters as he leaves his first day at the Covid inquiry. Back tomorrow <a href="https://t.co/EanqcM9QuU">pic.twitter.com/EanqcM9QuU</a></p>
— Hamish Morrison (@HMorrison97) <a href="https://twitter.com/HMorrison97/status/1732451763515494722?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 6, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Johnson's emotional apology</strong></h2>

<p>Overcome with emotions as he gave evidence, Johnson described 2020 as a "tragic, tragic year".</p>

<p>He said that at first, COVID-19 appeared as a "cloud on the horizon" and not the "typhoon" that killed more than 230,000 people in Britain.</p>

<p>As per the ex-prime minister, initially, he had trouble believing the forecast of fatalities, especially given previous scares like the swine flu pandemic and mad cow disease.</p>

<p>However, he admitted that he had only read minutes of the government's key scientific advisory groups on multiple occasions.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-cyberattacks-explosive-report-now-highlights-radioactive-leak-from-uks-sellafield-nuclear-site-666857">After cyberattacks, explosive report now highlights radioactive leak from UK’s Sellafield nuclear site</a></strong></p>

<p>Despite that, he denied that he was indecisive, and said there were constant, conflicting arguments between ministers and officials about Covid response. He also said that senior ministers were more reluctant than him to impose restrictions on public movement.</p>

<p>"Can I say that I understand the feelings of the victims and their families, and I am deeply sorry for the pain and the loss and the suffering," he said.</p>

<p>Dismissing the apologies, Aamer Anwar, the solicitor representing some bereaved families, said that Boris Johnson oversaw "a deadly culture of impunity, incompetence". He also alleged that the former PM treated people like "toxic waste".</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Wednesday (December 6) gave his most explicit apology for his government's handling of the coronavirus pandemic. Speaking at the United Kingdom's public COVID-19 inquiry, he said that his government had been too complacent and "vastly underestimated" the risks posed by the deadly virus.

Former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Wednesday (December 6) gave his most explicit apology for his government's handling of the coronavirus pandemic. Speaking at the United Kingdom's public COVID-19 inquiry, he said that his government had been too complacent and "vastly underestimated" the risks posed by the deadly virus. However, his attempts to apologise were met by heckling from demonstrators, who lost their loved ones during the COVID-19 pandemic. Too little too late? UK's PA Media news agency reports that as Johnson began to say his apologies, four people holding signs "the dead can't hear your apologies" stood up. Also read | Boris Johnson says 'deeply sorry' to families of Covid victims at inquiry into Britain's handling of pandemic One of them, Kathryn Butcher, who lost her sister-in-law Myrna Saunders to Covid, told the UK news agency: "We didn't want his apology. When he tried to apologise, we stood up. We didn't block anybody. We were told to sit down." Videos of people heckling him as he left the courtroom are circulating on social media, where people can be heard shouting at him. Boris Johnson ducks the media and is heckled by protesters as he leaves his first day at the Covid inquiry. Back tomorrow pic.twitter.com/EanqcM9QuU — Hamish Morrison (@HMorrison97) December 6, 2023 × Johnson's emotional apology Overcome with emotions as he gave evidence, Johnson described 2020 as a "tragic, tragic year". He said that at first, COVID-19 appeared as a "cloud on the horizon" and not the "typhoon" that killed more than 230,000 people in Britain. As per the ex-prime minister, initially, he had trouble believing the forecast of fatalities, especially given previous scares like the swine flu pandemic and mad cow disease. However, he admitted that he had only read minutes of the government's key scientific advisory groups on multiple occasions. Also read | After cyberattacks, explosive report now highlights radioactive leak from UK’s Sellafield nuclear site Despite that, he denied that he was indecisive, and said there were constant, conflicting arguments between ministers and officials about Covid response. He also said that senior ministers were more reluctant than him to impose restrictions on public movement. "Can I say that I understand the feelings of the victims and their families, and I am deeply sorry for the pain and the loss and the suffering," he said. Dismissing the apologies, Aamer Anwar, the solicitor representing some bereaved families, said that Boris Johnson oversaw "a deadly culture of impunity, incompetence". He also alleged that the former PM treated people like "toxic waste". (With inputs from agencies)

Boris Johnson's apologies over COVID-19 pandemic handling met with signs of 'dead can't hear'. Watch!

The former prime minister began his evidence with an apology, which was interrupted by protesters. Boris Johnson said he "understands the feelings of these victims and their families" and that he was "deeply sorry".

Boris Johnson: I am deeply sorry for the pain and loss

<p>Former British prime minister Boris Johnson on Wednesday (Dec 6) apologised to families of Covid victims, as he started giving evidence at a UK public inquiry into his government's handling of the pandemic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The hearing was briefly disrupted by a protester, who was asked to leave by the inquiry's chairwoman.</p>

<p>Johnson, who resigned in the aftermath of a probe into the Partygate scandal as it was found that he misled parliament, faced massive criticism from former aides for alleged indecisiveness and a lack of scientific understanding during the pandemic.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-boris-johnson-really-ask-to-plan-raid-on-dutch-covid-vaccine-factory-666600">Did Boris Johnson really ask to plan raid on Dutch Covid vaccine factory?</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Johnson is facing two days in the witness box. At the start of the hearing, the former PM said how glad he was to give evidence and how sorry he was for the suffering of victims and their families.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Johnson accepted that "mistakes" had "unquestionably" been made and further, stated, "I understand the feeling of the victims and their families and I'm deeply sorry for the pain and the loss and the suffering to those victims and their families."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Inevitably we got some things wrong," Johnson said, before adding "we did our level best" and that he took personal responsibility for decisions made.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wales-29-year-old-stabbed-in-village-of-aberfan-manhunt-underway-666581">29-year-old stabbed in village of Aberfan, manhunt underway</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The former PM had arrived around three hours early for the proceedings, with some suggesting he was eager to avoid relatives of the Covid bereaved who gathered outside later in the morning.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the UK, nearly 130,000 people died from Covid by mid-July 2021, one of the worst official per capita tolls among Western nations.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Former British prime minister Boris Johnson on Wednesday (Dec 6) apologised to families of Covid victims, as he started giving evidence at a UK public inquiry into his government's handling of the pandemic.

Former British prime minister Boris Johnson on Wednesday (Dec 6) apologised to families of Covid victims, as he started giving evidence at a UK public inquiry into his government's handling of the pandemic. The hearing was briefly disrupted by a protester, who was asked to leave by the inquiry's chairwoman. Johnson, who resigned in the aftermath of a probe into the Partygate scandal as it was found that he misled parliament, faced massive criticism from former aides for alleged indecisiveness and a lack of scientific understanding during the pandemic. Also read: Did Boris Johnson really ask to plan raid on Dutch Covid vaccine factory? Johnson is facing two days in the witness box. At the start of the hearing, the former PM said how glad he was to give evidence and how sorry he was for the suffering of victims and their families. Johnson accepted that "mistakes" had "unquestionably" been made and further, stated, "I understand the feeling of the victims and their families and I'm deeply sorry for the pain and the loss and the suffering to those victims and their families." "Inevitably we got some things wrong," Johnson said, before adding "we did our level best" and that he took personal responsibility for decisions made. Also read: 29-year-old stabbed in village of Aberfan, manhunt underway The former PM had arrived around three hours early for the proceedings, with some suggesting he was eager to avoid relatives of the Covid bereaved who gathered outside later in the morning. In the UK, nearly 130,000 people died from Covid by mid-July 2021, one of the worst official per capita tolls among Western nations. (With inputs from agencies)

Boris Johnson says 'deeply sorry' to families of Covid victims at inquiry into Britain's handling of pandemic

<p>Former British prime minister Boris Johnson reportedly asked the security services to chalk out plans to raid the Dutch Covid vaccine factory in Leiden.&nbsp;</p>

<p>UK-based Daily Mail newspaper reported citing diplomatic sources that Johnson made the call after saying the EU "stole" millions of AstraZeneca doses destined for Britain during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, the AstraZeneca vaccine was produced at two locations in the EU – the Netherlands and Belgium.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report added that the idea was dropped as the diplomats apparently warned that such an action would jeopardise the relations between both countries.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wales-29-year-old-stabbed-in-village-of-aberfan-manhunt-underway-666581">29-year-old stabbed in village of Aberfan, manhunt underway</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The report added that Johnson will bring up the incident when he testifies this week before an inquiry into the British government's response to the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The sources told Daily Mail that the EU had "basically sequestered" and "impounded" five million doses of the vaccine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>One of the sources was quoted as saying, "Of course, the PM was enraged – they were putting British lives at risk to make a political point and distract from their own failings".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"He ordered officials to look at all options for responding, and that did include asking the security services to look at whether there were any options for physically going and taking the vaccines from the Netherlands and bringing them here," the source added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-signs-new-treaty-with-rwanda-to-send-illegal-migrants-to-african-country-666573">UK signs new treaty with Rwanda to send illegal migrants to the African nation</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>As quoted, a second source said of the raid: "Boris was infuriated, as you would expect, and he wanted to look at every avenue for responding. It went well beyond trade retaliation; it was diplomatic, security, and everything. He felt he was fighting for British lives and at one point he did ask whether there were military options for just going and getting these vaccines.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Obviously, that would have had major repercussions, not least in terms of other vaccine supplies that were being manufactured in the EU. I don't know how far the idea got," the source added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;White house warns Putin could win if Ukraine aid dries up</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Did the Netherlands warn to block shipments?</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Dutch government officials told Politico.eu in March 2021 that the Netherlands was prepared to halt shipments of AstraZeneca's Covid jabs if Britain did not agree to share vaccines more fairly with the EU.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Former British prime minister Boris Johnson reportedly asked the security services to chalk out plans to raid the Dutch Covid vaccine factory in Leiden. UK-based Daily Mail newspaper reported citing diplomatic sources that Johnson made the call after saying the EU "stole" millions of AstraZeneca doses destined for Britain during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Former British prime minister Boris Johnson reportedly asked the security services to chalk out plans to raid the Dutch Covid vaccine factory in Leiden. UK-based Daily Mail newspaper reported citing diplomatic sources that Johnson made the call after saying the EU "stole" millions of AstraZeneca doses destined for Britain during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Notably, the AstraZeneca vaccine was produced at two locations in the EU – the Netherlands and Belgium. The report added that the idea was dropped as the diplomats apparently warned that such an action would jeopardise the relations between both countries. Also read: 29-year-old stabbed in village of Aberfan, manhunt underway The report added that Johnson will bring up the incident when he testifies this week before an inquiry into the British government's response to the coronavirus pandemic. The sources told Daily Mail that the EU had "basically sequestered" and "impounded" five million doses of the vaccine. One of the sources was quoted as saying, "Of course, the PM was enraged – they were putting British lives at risk to make a political point and distract from their own failings". "He ordered officials to look at all options for responding, and that did include asking the security services to look at whether there were any options for physically going and taking the vaccines from the Netherlands and bringing them here," the source added. Also read: UK signs new treaty with Rwanda to send illegal migrants to the African nation As quoted, a second source said of the raid: "Boris was infuriated, as you would expect, and he wanted to look at every avenue for responding. It went well beyond trade retaliation; it was diplomatic, security, and everything. He felt he was fighting for British lives and at one point he did ask whether there were military options for just going and getting these vaccines. "Obviously, that would have had major repercussions, not least in terms of other vaccine supplies that were being manufactured in the EU. I don't know how far the idea got," the source added. Watch: White house warns Putin could win if Ukraine aid dries up × Did the Netherlands warn to block shipments? Dutch government officials told Politico.eu in March 2021 that the Netherlands was prepared to halt shipments of AstraZeneca's Covid jabs if Britain did not agree to share vaccines more fairly with the EU. (With inputs from agencies)

Did Boris Johnson really ask to plan raid on Dutch Covid vaccine factory?

<p>Former British prime minister Boris Johnson has said the Conservatives are "drifting to defeat" under Rishi Sunak administration. He also claimed that the current prime minister is a "stooge" in the plot by Dominic Cummings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>His remarks came during a series of interviews with former cabinet minister Nadine Dorries for her new book, titled, <em>The Plot: the Political Assassination of Boris Johnson</em>, which was released on Thursday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Johnson said that UK PM Sunak was offering voters "nothing to rally behind" and added that the current prime minister needs to offer a "positive agenda for change".&nbsp;</p>

<p>He told Dorries: "I heard that Cummings has said he started to plot to get rid of me in January 2020. The plot was always to get Rishi in. I just couldn't see it at the time. It's like this Manchurian candidate, their stooge."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-rishi-sunak-and-us-vp-kamala-harris-celebrate-diwali-at-their-official-residences-pics-inside-656793">UK PM Rishi Sunak and US VP Kamala Harris celebrate Diwali at their official residences</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The former PM also said during the interview that Sunak has so far failed to inspire.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He argued that Britain's first Indian-origin PM has given voters in former red wall Labour seats "nothing to rally behind" after he won them over by promising to deliver Brexit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said: "You've got to have a positive agenda for change in the country. You know, people still feel hacked off. They voted for change in 2019 and they are drifting back to Labour in those Brexit seats because they're not seeing a changed government."&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Johnson, the government needs a "massive kick in the pants" going forward.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-boris-johnson-really-ask-if-covid-could-be-killed-by-hairdryer-up-nose-654348">Did Boris Johnson really ask if Covid could be killed by hairdryer up the nose?</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Johnson criticises Sunak's policies</strong></h2>

<p>Johnson slammed some of the policy moves made by Sunak, stating that the PM had destroyed his legacy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said that the HS2 has "become a total joke" in the aftermath of its northern leg being scrapped.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"There was a massive agenda we had as a government to transform the country, and it doesn't seem to be happening in any form of articulated way," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Johnson added that the chancellor Jeremy Hunt should be cutting corporation tax.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Diwali at Downing Street</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Ex-UK PM in Israel</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, Johnson on Sunday (Nov 5) paid a visit to Kibbutz Kfar Aza, which was devastated by Hamas militants in the Oct 7 attacks. He was with former Australian prime minister Scott Morrison.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They were accompanied by Israeli soldiers and officials, as they walked into some of the houses burned during the attacks.</p>

<p>Johnson said he believes that the attacks might suggest that the memory of the Holocaust is "starting to fade" but stressed that antisemitism "simply cannot be tolerated".</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Former British prime minister Boris Johnson has said the Conservatives are "drifting to defeat" under Rishi Sunak administration. He also claimed that the current prime minister is a "stooge" in the plot by Dominic Cummings.

Former British prime minister Boris Johnson has said the Conservatives are "drifting to defeat" under Rishi Sunak administration. He also claimed that the current prime minister is a "stooge" in the plot by Dominic Cummings. His remarks came during a series of interviews with former cabinet minister Nadine Dorries for her new book, titled, The Plot: the Political Assassination of Boris Johnson, which was released on Thursday. Johnson said that UK PM Sunak was offering voters "nothing to rally behind" and added that the current prime minister needs to offer a "positive agenda for change". He told Dorries: "I heard that Cummings has said he started to plot to get rid of me in January 2020. The plot was always to get Rishi in. I just couldn't see it at the time. It's like this Manchurian candidate, their stooge." Also read: UK PM Rishi Sunak and US VP Kamala Harris celebrate Diwali at their official residences The former PM also said during the interview that Sunak has so far failed to inspire. He argued that Britain's first Indian-origin PM has given voters in former red wall Labour seats "nothing to rally behind" after he won them over by promising to deliver Brexit. He said: "You've got to have a positive agenda for change in the country. You know, people still feel hacked off. They voted for change in 2019 and they are drifting back to Labour in those Brexit seats because they're not seeing a changed government." According to Johnson, the government needs a "massive kick in the pants" going forward. Also read: Did Boris Johnson really ask if Covid could be killed by hairdryer up the nose? Johnson criticises Sunak's policies Johnson slammed some of the policy moves made by Sunak, stating that the PM had destroyed his legacy. He said that the HS2 has "become a total joke" in the aftermath of its northern leg being scrapped. "There was a massive agenda we had as a government to transform the country, and it doesn't seem to be happening in any form of articulated way," he said. Johnson added that the chancellor Jeremy Hunt should be cutting corporation tax. Watch: Diwali at Downing Street × Ex-UK PM in Israel Meanwhile, Johnson on Sunday (Nov 5) paid a visit to Kibbutz Kfar Aza, which was devastated by Hamas militants in the Oct 7 attacks. He was with former Australian prime minister Scott Morrison. They were accompanied by Israeli soldiers and officials, as they walked into some of the houses burned during the attacks. Johnson said he believes that the attacks might suggest that the memory of the Holocaust is "starting to fade" but stressed that antisemitism "simply cannot be tolerated". (With inputs from agencies)

Boris Johnson's big claim: Ex-PM says Rishi Sunak 'stooge' in Dominic Cummings Jan 2020 'plot'

Former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson has hit out at the current Prime Minister Rishi Sunak claiming that the Tories are drifting to defeat under his leadership - Johnson said that voters are turning back towards Labour because Tories are offering them nothing.

Former UK PM Boris Johnson claims Rishi Sunak was a 'stooge' put in place by Cummings | WION

UK: Former PM Boris Johnson says, 'Tories under Sunak drifting to defeat'

Should governments kill the old people to save the young? During the Wuhan virus pandemic, then-British PM Boris Johnson reportedly said that the virus is nature's way of dealing with the old. Some members of his party believed the govt should let the old get covid and protect the young.

Gravitas: Should governments kill the old people to save the young?

<p>Former UK prime minister Boris Johnson, who resigned in the aftermath of a probe into the Partygate scandal as it was found that he misled parliament, apparently asked the top scientists Chris Whitty and Patrick Vallance if coronavirus (COVID-19) could be destroyed by blowing a "special hairdryer" up the nose, reports said on Wednesday (Nov 1).&nbsp;</p>

<p>His former top aide Dominic Cummings said that Johnson had also asked him to find a "dead cat" to get rid of pandemic front pages of newspapers. Apparently, he was "sick" of it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, the phrase "dead cat" is often used to divert attention away from an unwanted story.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pandemic-impacted-brain-health-of-elderlies-even-if-they-didnt-catch-covid-654112">Brain health of those 50 and above declined rapidly during the pandemic</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Local reports have said that Johnson wanted the country's scientists Sir Chris Whitty and Sir Patrick Vallance to give their opinions about it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a statement submitted to a public inquiry into Covid, Cummings used his 115-page witness statement and in-person testimony to assail the ex-PM's Covid handling.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In late 2020, Cummings quit Johnson's government after falling out with him.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"A low point was when he circulated a video of a guy blowing a special hairdryer up his nose 'to kill Covid' and asked the CSA [chief scientific advisor] and CMO [chief medical officer] what they thought," the former aide said, referring to Vallance and Whitty.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ex-advisors-slam-boris-johnson-over-handling-of-covid-pandemic-during-public-hearing-653634">Ex-advisors slam Boris Johnson over handling of Covid pandemic during public hearing</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>When the pandemic was raging with hundreds and thousands of positive cases every day, several false claims started circulating on social media. Many fact-checkers have debunked the claim about hair dryers and saunas killing Covid.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Cummings further said that various personal and political matters were reasons why Johnson was "extremely distracted" when the virus first hit Britain.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"He had a divorce to finalise and was grappling with financial problems from that," he wrote.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"An ex-girlfriend was making accusations about him in the media. His current girlfriend wanted to finalise the announcement of their engagement. He said he wanted to work on his Shakespeare book," he added.</p>

<p>Now, the inquiry, which is chaired by a retired senior judge, is to interview Johnson and current Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, who was finance minister during the pandemic, later this year.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Former UK prime minister Boris Johnson, who resigned in the aftermath of a probe into the Partygate scandal as it was found that he misled parliament, apparently asked the top scientists Chris Whitty and Patrick Vallance if coronavirus (COVID-19) could be destroyed by blowing a "special hairdryer" up the nose, reports said on Wednesday (Nov 1).

Former UK prime minister Boris Johnson, who resigned in the aftermath of a probe into the Partygate scandal as it was found that he misled parliament, apparently asked the top scientists Chris Whitty and Patrick Vallance if coronavirus (COVID-19) could be destroyed by blowing a "special hairdryer" up the nose, reports said on Wednesday (Nov 1). His former top aide Dominic Cummings said that Johnson had also asked him to find a "dead cat" to get rid of pandemic front pages of newspapers. Apparently, he was "sick" of it. Notably, the phrase "dead cat" is often used to divert attention away from an unwanted story. Also read: Brain health of those 50 and above declined rapidly during the pandemic Local reports have said that Johnson wanted the country's scientists Sir Chris Whitty and Sir Patrick Vallance to give their opinions about it. In a statement submitted to a public inquiry into Covid, Cummings used his 115-page witness statement and in-person testimony to assail the ex-PM's Covid handling. In late 2020, Cummings quit Johnson's government after falling out with him. "A low point was when he circulated a video of a guy blowing a special hairdryer up his nose 'to kill Covid' and asked the CSA [chief scientific advisor] and CMO [chief medical officer] what they thought," the former aide said, referring to Vallance and Whitty. Also read: Ex-advisors slam Boris Johnson over handling of Covid pandemic during public hearing When the pandemic was raging with hundreds and thousands of positive cases every day, several false claims started circulating on social media. Many fact-checkers have debunked the claim about hair dryers and saunas killing Covid. Cummings further said that various personal and political matters were reasons why Johnson was "extremely distracted" when the virus first hit Britain. "He had a divorce to finalise and was grappling with financial problems from that," he wrote. "An ex-girlfriend was making accusations about him in the media. His current girlfriend wanted to finalise the announcement of their engagement. He said he wanted to work on his Shakespeare book," he added. Now, the inquiry, which is chaired by a retired senior judge, is to interview Johnson and current Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, who was finance minister during the pandemic, later this year. (With inputs from agencies)

Did Boris Johnson really ask if Covid could be killed by hairdryer up the nose?

<p>Former senior advisors of UK’s then prime minister Boris Johnson have slammed the leader over mishandling of the Covid crisis.</p>

<p>On Tuesday (Oct 31), both were summoned to testify against Johnson in the COVID-19 public inquiry that was set up to examine the government’s response to the pandemic.</p>

<p>The inquiry, which is chaired by retired senior judge Heather Hallett, is examining decision-making and political governance. In the first phase, it focused on the UK's resilience and preparedness.</p>

<p>Dominic Cummings, Johnson's ex-top aide, and Lee Cain, Downing Street's former communications chief, were critical of Johnson’s attitude when the country was facing one of its worst crises, especially during mid-July 2021 when Britain officially recorded nearly 130,000 fatalities.</p>

<p>During the hearing, Cummings was shown a host of disparaging WhatsApp messages in which he called his former colleagues “useless f***pigs, morons and c***s”, reports Independent.</p>

<h2><strong>Johnson was called a trolley&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Cummings also reiterated past descriptions of Johnson as a broken shopping "trolley" that would veer in all directions on issues, most notably Covid.</p>

<p>"Pretty much everyone called him a trolley," Cummings told the inquiry.</p>

<p>The former top aide candidly admitted that the government’s response during the pandemic featured "widespread failure" alongside "pockets of excellent teams doing excellent work within an overall dysfunctional system".</p>

<p>Former communications chief Cain said that Covid was the "wrong crisis" for Johnson's skill set, admitting that he became "exhausted" by his alleged indecision in dealing with the pandemic in early 2020.</p>

<h2><strong>Johnson was indecisive&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>"He's somebody who would often delay making decisions, would often seek counsel from multiple sources and change his mind on issues," Cain said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-to-cremate-former-premier-li-keqiang-in-beijing-on-thursday-653612">China to cremate former premier Li Keqiang in Beijing on Thursday</a></p>

<p>He said that can be "a great strength" in politics, but the pandemic response required "quick decisions" and "people to hold the course" and "not constantly unpick things".</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/survey-44-of-canadians-say-theres-too-much-immigration-to-country-653599">Survey finds 44% of Canadians say there's too much immigration, reflects criticism of Trudeau govt's policy</a></p>

<p>When asked about expletive-filled messages from Cummings to Cain in early 2020 criticising Johnson's performance, the former communications chief acknowledged that the prime minister frustrated his senior aides.</p>

<p>"Anyone that's worked with the prime minister for a period of time will become exhausted with him sometimes," he said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Former senior advisors of UK’s then prime minister Boris Johnson have slammed the leader over mishandling of the Covid crisis. On Tuesday (Oct 31), both were summoned to testify against Johnson in the COVID-19 public inquiry that was set up to examine the government’s response to the pandemic.

Former senior advisors of UK’s then prime minister Boris Johnson have slammed the leader over mishandling of the Covid crisis. On Tuesday (Oct 31), both were summoned to testify against Johnson in the COVID-19 public inquiry that was set up to examine the government’s response to the pandemic. The inquiry, which is chaired by retired senior judge Heather Hallett, is examining decision-making and political governance. In the first phase, it focused on the UK's resilience and preparedness. Dominic Cummings, Johnson's ex-top aide, and Lee Cain, Downing Street's former communications chief, were critical of Johnson’s attitude when the country was facing one of its worst crises, especially during mid-July 2021 when Britain officially recorded nearly 130,000 fatalities. During the hearing, Cummings was shown a host of disparaging WhatsApp messages in which he called his former colleagues “useless f***pigs, morons and c***s”, reports Independent. Johnson was called a trolley Cummings also reiterated past descriptions of Johnson as a broken shopping "trolley" that would veer in all directions on issues, most notably Covid. "Pretty much everyone called him a trolley," Cummings told the inquiry. The former top aide candidly admitted that the government’s response during the pandemic featured "widespread failure" alongside "pockets of excellent teams doing excellent work within an overall dysfunctional system". Former communications chief Cain said that Covid was the "wrong crisis" for Johnson's skill set, admitting that he became "exhausted" by his alleged indecision in dealing with the pandemic in early 2020. Johnson was indecisive "He's somebody who would often delay making decisions, would often seek counsel from multiple sources and change his mind on issues," Cain said. Also read | China to cremate former premier Li Keqiang in Beijing on Thursday He said that can be "a great strength" in politics, but the pandemic response required "quick decisions" and "people to hold the course" and "not constantly unpick things". Also read | Survey finds 44% of Canadians say there's too much immigration, reflects criticism of Trudeau govt's policy When asked about expletive-filled messages from Cummings to Cain in early 2020 criticising Johnson's performance, the former communications chief acknowledged that the prime minister frustrated his senior aides. "Anyone that's worked with the prime minister for a period of time will become exhausted with him sometimes," he said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Ex-advisors slam Boris Johnson over handling of Covid pandemic during public hearing

The UK where the ongoing Covid inquiry into the conduct of former Prime Minister Boris Johnson has revealed that the former Tory leader agreed with some members of his party.

UK: Concerning revelations in Covid inquiry | Ex-adviser says, 'UK govt had no Covid plans'

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UK: Boris Johnson to campaign for Tories in General Election comeback

UK: Boris Johnson expected to make a general election comeback

UK: Boris Johnson set for big general election comeback

UK: Boris Johnson to campaign for Tories in Red Wall seats

Michael Gove wants Boris Johnson to frontline Tories poll campaign

UK Elections 2024: Boris Johnson to lead Tories in elections?

Michael Gove wants Boris Johnson to frontline Tories poll campaign

Ex-UK PM Boris Johnson says world was 'safer and more stable' when Trump was US president

UK: Will Boris Johnson make a comeback ahead of General elections?

Tucker Carlson: Boris Johnson demanded $1 million for interview

Gravitas: Is Boris Johnson making a comeback?

UK: Tory MPs urge Rishi Sunak to bring back Boris Johnson

UK PM Rishi Sunak opens door to Boris Johnson

‘I like his style’: Boris Johnson says Trump as next US president will be ‘big win for the world’

Putin says Boris Johnson played spoilsport as UK PM, derailed peace deal with Ukraine

Penny Mordaunt claims messages from Boris Johnson 'vanished'

UK PM Rishi Sunak apologises to bereaved families in Covid inquiry, slammed for prioritising economy

UK: Rishi Sunak to be questioned at Covid inquiry, was Finance Minister at the time | WION

Former UK PM Boris Johnson denies Covid allegations, 'Partygate' horrors for Johnson | WION

Partygate scandal: Former UK PM Boris Johnson hits 'dramatic representations' | Day 2 of hearing

Boris Johnson's apologies over COVID-19 pandemic handling met with signs of 'dead can't hear'. Watch!

Boris Johnson: I am deeply sorry for the pain and loss

Boris Johnson says 'deeply sorry' to families of Covid victims at inquiry into Britain's handling of pandemic

Did Boris Johnson really ask to plan raid on Dutch Covid vaccine factory?

Boris Johnson's big claim: Ex-PM says Rishi Sunak 'stooge' in Dominic Cummings Jan 2020 'plot'

Former UK PM Boris Johnson claims Rishi Sunak was a 'stooge' put in place by Cummings | WION