<p>Former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who was forced to leave the British Prime Minister's Office following the partygate scandal, has now landed a job at the GB News network as a TV presenter. Johnson is also making a debut as a series producer on the news channel, according to The Hollywood Reporter.</p>

<p>Boris Johnson is the latest Conservative politician to join the broadcaster, following former Business Secretary Jacob Rees-Mogg, party deputy chairman Lee Anderson, and husband-and-wife MPs Esther McVey and Philip Davies, BBC reported.</p>

<p>Johnson has promised to share his "unvarnished views" on British politics and more.</p>

<h2><strong>Context of Boris Johnson's TV news role</strong></h2>

<p>Johnson will be a commentator for the coverage of GB News towards the UK general election scheduled next year as well as the US presidential elections.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"GB News is an insurgent channel with a loyal and growing following. I am excited to say I will be joining shortly — and offering my frank opinions on world affairs," Johnson said in a statement on Friday (Oct 27).</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boris-johnson-believed-narayana-murthy-was-helping-rishi-sunak-to-become-uk-pm-reveals-new-book-636519">Boris Johnson 'believed' Narayana Murthy was helping Rishi Sunak to become UK PM, claims new book</a></strong>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last year, Boris Johnson resigned as British PM following a massive uproar in the Conservative Party over hosting parties at his official prime ministerial residences whilst the restrictions to control the spread of Covid were in place.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Johnson later also resigned as a Member of Parliament from his Uxbridge constituency citing the need for time to write books.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;UK: Timeline of scandals faced by Boris Johnson's government</strong></p>

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<p>"I am delighted to say, GB News has got Boris 'done'!" GB News editorial director Michael Booker said in an official statement, a reflection of Boris Johnson's "Get Brexit Done” political slogan that is widely described as the reason why Conservative Party won a landslide general election victory in 2019 right before Britain's exit from the European Union.</p>

<p>"We are tremendously proud to have him join the GB News family, particularly as we head into a seismic year of politics both here and across the Atlantic," Booker added.<br />
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<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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Former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who was forced to leave the British Prime Minister's Office following the partygate scandal, has now landed a job at the GB News network as a TV presenter.

Former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who was forced to leave the British Prime Minister's Office following the partygate scandal, has now landed a job at the GB News network as a TV presenter. Johnson is also making a debut as a series producer on the news channel, according to The Hollywood Reporter. Boris Johnson is the latest Conservative politician to join the broadcaster, following former Business Secretary Jacob Rees-Mogg, party deputy chairman Lee Anderson, and husband-and-wife MPs Esther McVey and Philip Davies, BBC reported. Johnson has promised to share his "unvarnished views" on British politics and more. Context of Boris Johnson's TV news role Johnson will be a commentator for the coverage of GB News towards the UK general election scheduled next year as well as the US presidential elections. "GB News is an insurgent channel with a loyal and growing following. I am excited to say I will be joining shortly — and offering my frank opinions on world affairs," Johnson said in a statement on Friday (Oct 27). Also read | Boris Johnson 'believed' Narayana Murthy was helping Rishi Sunak to become UK PM, claims new book Last year, Boris Johnson resigned as British PM following a massive uproar in the Conservative Party over hosting parties at his official prime ministerial residences whilst the restrictions to control the spread of Covid were in place. Johnson later also resigned as a Member of Parliament from his Uxbridge constituency citing the need for time to write books. Also watch | UK: Timeline of scandals faced by Boris Johnson's government × "I am delighted to say, GB News has got Boris 'done'!" GB News editorial director Michael Booker said in an official statement, a reflection of Boris Johnson's "Get Brexit Done” political slogan that is widely described as the reason why Conservative Party won a landslide general election victory in 2019 right before Britain's exit from the European Union. "We are tremendously proud to have him join the GB News family, particularly as we head into a seismic year of politics both here and across the Atlantic," Booker added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Hi folks, Boris Johnson here': Former UK PM to debut as TV news presenter

Former Prime Minister Boris Johnson has signed up to join TV channel GB News.

UK: Boris Johnson: Former prime minister to host GB News show

<p>Labour Party leader Keir Starmer said&nbsp;that a major rewrite of the Brexit deal will be pursued with the EU if the party gets elected, citing the responsibility he has towards his children and future generations.<br />
<br />
While unveiling the blueprint for power if the next general elections are won by the party, the Labour Party leader told the Financial Times he plans to seek a closer trading relationship with Brussels when the Brexit agreement, which was negotiated by then-prime minister Boris Johnson, is reviewed in 2025.<br />
<br />
“Almost everyone recognises the deal Johnson struck is not a good deal – it’s far too thin. As we go into 2025 we will attempt to get a much better deal for the UK,” said Starmer.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rishi-sunak-governments-raised-uk-visa-fee-to-affect-incoming-students-visitors-636739">Rishi Sunak government's UK visa fee hike to affect students, visitors</a></p>

<p>The comments were made by Starmer in Canada during the Global Progress Action Summit, which was a conference of centre-left leaders held in Montreal. During the conference, Starmer also held a bilateral meeting with Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.<br />
<br />
The trip was a part of Starmer's wider international tour. Last week, he visited The Hague and he is set to visit Paris where he will meet French President Emmanuel Macron on Tuesday (September 19).<br />
<br />
The Labour leader stated that there is “more that can be achieved across the board” between the EU and the UK in a revised deal, especially in the areas of business, veterinary compliance, professional services, security, innovation and research. The leader also ruled out rejoining the customs union, the EU and the single market.</p>

<h2><strong>Brexit deal to be reviewed in 2025</strong></h2>

<p>The deal, which was finalised by Johnson, will be up for review in 2025. However, the process is being seen as an ironing-out procedure by Brussels.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;UK approves $630 MN aid for Tata Steel</strong></p>

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<p>“We have to make it work,” Starmer said while speaking to the paper. “That’s not a question of going back in. But I refuse to accept that we can’t make it work. I think about those future generations when I say that,” he added.<br />
<br />
“I say that as a dad. I’ve got a 15-year-old boy and a 12-year-old girl. I’m not going to let them grow up in a world where all I’ve got to say to them about their future is, it’s going to be worse than it might otherwise have been. I’ve got an utter determination to make this work,” he further stated.<br />
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Labour Party leader Keir Starmer said that a major rewrite of the Brexit deal will be pursued with the EU if the party gets elected, citing the responsibility he has towards his children and future generations.

Labour Party leader Keir Starmer said that a major rewrite of the Brexit deal will be pursued with the EU if the party gets elected, citing the responsibility he has towards his children and future generations. While unveiling the blueprint for power if the next general elections are won by the party, the Labour Party leader told the Financial Times he plans to seek a closer trading relationship with Brussels when the Brexit agreement, which was negotiated by then-prime minister Boris Johnson, is reviewed in 2025. “Almost everyone recognises the deal Johnson struck is not a good deal – it’s far too thin. As we go into 2025 we will attempt to get a much better deal for the UK,” said Starmer. ALSO READ | Rishi Sunak government's UK visa fee hike to affect students, visitors The comments were made by Starmer in Canada during the Global Progress Action Summit, which was a conference of centre-left leaders held in Montreal. During the conference, Starmer also held a bilateral meeting with Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. The trip was a part of Starmer's wider international tour. Last week, he visited The Hague and he is set to visit Paris where he will meet French President Emmanuel Macron on Tuesday (September 19). The Labour leader stated that there is “more that can be achieved across the board” between the EU and the UK in a revised deal, especially in the areas of business, veterinary compliance, professional services, security, innovation and research. The leader also ruled out rejoining the customs union, the EU and the single market. Brexit deal to be reviewed in 2025 The deal, which was finalised by Johnson, will be up for review in 2025. However, the process is being seen as an ironing-out procedure by Brussels. WATCH | UK approves $630 MN aid for Tata Steel “We have to make it work,” Starmer said while speaking to the paper. “That’s not a question of going back in. But I refuse to accept that we can’t make it work. I think about those future generations when I say that,” he added. “I say that as a dad. I’ve got a 15-year-old boy and a 12-year-old girl. I’m not going to let them grow up in a world where all I’ve got to say to them about their future is, it’s going to be worse than it might otherwise have been. I’ve got an utter determination to make this work,” he further stated. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Brexit deal will be majorly rewritten if Labour is elected, says leader Keir Starmer

<p>Senior UK government officials engaged in discussions with Buckingham Palace regarding their apprehensions about former prime minister Boris Johnson's behaviour while in office and even wanted late Queen Elizabeth to intervene, a documentary has claimed. The No 10, Downing Street officials discussed requesting the Queen to address these concerns with Johnson during their private meetings, according to the BBC documentary.</p>

<p>A source in the documentary reportedly said the former UK “had to be reminded of the constitution”.</p>

<p>While the specific actions of Boris Johnson that raised concerns remain unspecified, the documentary highlighted conflicts that occurred between Dominic Cummings, who served as Johnson's chief of staff at the beginning of his prime ministership, and Sir Mark Sedwill, the former head of the civil service.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-states-issue-alert-over-west-nile-virus-after-new-york-city-reports-death-637133">US: States issue alert over West Nile virus after New York City reports death</a></p>

<h2><strong>Political turbulence</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>The discussions with Buckingham Palace reportedly occurred around May 2020, a period marked by both political upheaval in the UK following the Brexit vote and the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic.</p>

<p>The documentary characterised the period as one of "significant tensions" between Johnson's political staff and the civil service.</p>

<p>It stated that communications between No. 10&nbsp;officials and Buckingham Palace went beyond routine matters to address these concerns.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/elon-musk-has-his-say-on-mexico-alien-corpse-saga-637126">Elon Musk has his say on Mexico alien corpses saga</a></p>

<p>One of the hopes among government officials was that Queen Elizabeth might bring up the matter during her private conversations with the then prime minister.</p>

<h2><strong>Toxic atmosphere in Downing Street</strong></h2>

<p>An unnamed source in the documentary described the atmosphere within Downing Street during that period as "utterly grim, and totally crazy."</p>

<p>Additionally, relationships between political officials and civil servants were depicted as "just toxic."</p>

<p><strong>Watch | G7 nations to launch Russian diamond ban to target war funding</strong></p>

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<p>The documentary also mentions that Buckingham Palace had expressed "acute concern" in the past when Boris Johnson forcibly suspended parliament in the summer of 2019. This suspension, carried out in the name of the queen, was subsequently deemed illegal.</p>

<h2><strong>Tensions following Johnson's COVID-19 hospitalisation</strong></h2>

<p>Helen MacNamara, the former deputy cabinet secretary and the second most senior civil servant in the government, acknowledged significant tensions following Boris Johnson's hospitalisation with COVID-19 early in the pandemic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“There were definitely times after the prime minister came back from his illness when the kind of the perception amongst the political team at No 10 about the failings of the system and the failings of the civil service and the failings of different institutions, it was just so extreme the way that they were articulating that, they were in absolutely kind of smash everything up, shut it all down, start again … we were systematically in real trouble,” she said.</p>

<p>The UK media outlet reported that Buckingham Palace declined to comment on the matter.</p>

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Senior UK government officials engaged in discussions with Buckingham Palace regarding their apprehensions about former prime minister Boris Johnson's behaviour while in office and even wanted late Queen Elizabeth to intervene, a documentary has claimed.

Senior UK government officials engaged in discussions with Buckingham Palace regarding their apprehensions about former prime minister Boris Johnson's behaviour while in office and even wanted late Queen Elizabeth to intervene, a documentary has claimed. The No 10, Downing Street officials discussed requesting the Queen to address these concerns with Johnson during their private meetings, according to the BBC documentary. A source in the documentary reportedly said the former UK “had to be reminded of the constitution”. While the specific actions of Boris Johnson that raised concerns remain unspecified, the documentary highlighted conflicts that occurred between Dominic Cummings, who served as Johnson's chief of staff at the beginning of his prime ministership, and Sir Mark Sedwill, the former head of the civil service. Also Read | US: States issue alert over West Nile virus after New York City reports death Political turbulence The discussions with Buckingham Palace reportedly occurred around May 2020, a period marked by both political upheaval in the UK following the Brexit vote and the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. The documentary characterised the period as one of "significant tensions" between Johnson's political staff and the civil service. It stated that communications between No. 10 officials and Buckingham Palace went beyond routine matters to address these concerns. Also Read | Elon Musk has his say on Mexico alien corpses saga One of the hopes among government officials was that Queen Elizabeth might bring up the matter during her private conversations with the then prime minister. Toxic atmosphere in Downing Street An unnamed source in the documentary described the atmosphere within Downing Street during that period as "utterly grim, and totally crazy." Additionally, relationships between political officials and civil servants were depicted as "just toxic." Watch | G7 nations to launch Russian diamond ban to target war funding × The documentary also mentions that Buckingham Palace had expressed "acute concern" in the past when Boris Johnson forcibly suspended parliament in the summer of 2019. This suspension, carried out in the name of the queen, was subsequently deemed illegal. Tensions following Johnson's COVID-19 hospitalisation Helen MacNamara, the former deputy cabinet secretary and the second most senior civil servant in the government, acknowledged significant tensions following Boris Johnson's hospitalisation with COVID-19 early in the pandemic. “There were definitely times after the prime minister came back from his illness when the kind of the perception amongst the political team at No 10 about the failings of the system and the failings of the civil service and the failings of different institutions, it was just so extreme the way that they were articulating that, they were in absolutely kind of smash everything up, shut it all down, start again … we were systematically in real trouble,” she said. The UK media outlet reported that Buckingham Palace declined to comment on the matter. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Top UK officials discussed seeking Queen's help amid No 10 'chaos' over Boris Johnson's behaviour

<p>UK Conservative Party heavyweights Boris Johnson and Rishi Sunak were not always rivals. As Johnson's fortunes went down the bunker of Partygate scandal that rocked London's political corridors in 2021, Sunak eventually became the PM after Liz Truss resigned following a brief stay at 10, Downing Street. Sunak got the&nbsp;premiership after his sole&nbsp;competitor, Penny Mordaunt, dropped out of the race.</p>

<p>For the much of his premiership, Johnson saw his relationship with Sunak as that of a 'mentor' and 'mentee' and when Sunak eventually quit as secretary of exchequer (akin to finance minister) 'without even a text', Johnson was aghast.</p>

<p>"Who the f--k does he think he is?," Johnson is reported to have said with a seething reaction in a new book called 'The Right To Rule', authored by Ben Riley-Smith, the political editor of The Telegraph newspaper.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The author claims in the book that Sunak had started preparing ground for his premiership bid much before February 2023, when the Sue Gray's initial investigation findings about Partygate scandal indicted Johnson of violating Covid restrictions to host parties at his official prime ministerial residences.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/partygate-scandal-5-key-takeaways-from-committee-report-accusing-boris-johnson-on-lockdown-parties-604914">'Partygate scandal': 5 key takeaways from committee report accusing Boris Johnson of lockdown parties</a></strong></p>

<p>"One such indicator came in late autumn 2021, when a special adviser to then Northern Ireland Secretary Brandon Lewis overheard the Chancellor’s inner team in a Westminster pub discussing the shape of a Sunak premiership. ‘They were literally plotting out who they thought should be in various positions in the Cabinet,’ said a source familiar with what was heard," claims the book, an excerpt of which was published in The Telegraph.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The timeline of this claim is significant.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The alleged discussions related to Sunak's premiership occurred even before December 23, 2023, when 'ReadyforRishi' domain name was registered online, the earliest previously reported indication of Sunak's intent to canvass support for his potential premiership.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, for Boris Johnson who was still the Prime Minister then, Sunak's potential plans of succession continued to create jitters.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Sunak as UK PM: What Boris Johnson 'believed' about Narayana Murthy's role</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>The book claims that Boris Johnson was prone to believing in political conspiracies.</p>

<p>"One wild and unsubstantiated rumour he voiced was that Sunak’s father-in-law, Indian billionaire Narayana Murthy, had Dominic Cummings on a retainer," the book claims, while referring to British political strategist who served as Chief Advisor to British Prime Minister Boris Johnson from July 2019 to November 2020.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-boris-johnsons-partygate-verdict-from-house-of-commons-privileges-committee-604816">Explained | Boris Johnson's Partygate verdict by House of Commons privileges committee</a></strong></p>

<p>During the months of Partygate upheaval, Cummings was not serving any official role in the Downing Street and had resigned in November 2020. Johnson reportedly believed that his former political aide with whom he had a fallout, was now working to boost Sunak's political fortunes.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<img alt="Dominic Cummings" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="13d90044-07c1-4701-b95b-3e33cf6e23d8" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-09-16T131720.947.png" /></p>

<p><em><a>Dominic Cummings, special adviser to then&nbsp;Britain's Prime Minister Boris Johnson leaves 10 Downing Street, in London, Britain on November 14, 2023 | Reuters</a></em></p>

<p>"There is no suggestion it was accurate. Yet ‘Boris believed it to be true’, according to a senior Johnson Cabinet minister cited in the book.</p>

<p>"Despite the absence of proof, the idea of great forces thwarting him – money, a rival and a former adviser turned nemesis all wrapped up together – somehow appealed," the book says further,&nbsp;while referring to the way Johnson, who was already reeling under the Partygate scandal, was being outfoxed by his cabinet colleagues to succeed him if he was to lose office.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"No doubt by 2022 Cummings wanted his former boss gone. He would release damning claims about Johnson in Substack blog posts after leaving Westminster. The idea that something similar was happening in private is not fanciful. But seeing a Cummings puppet master behind every negative story was incorrect. And so the narrative pushed by Johnson allies of an ‘orchestrated’ ouster – whether by Sunak or Cummings – is too convenient. It absolves him, and them, of any responsibility," the book says.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>'The Right to Rule: Thirteen Years, Five Prime Ministers and the Implosion of the Tories' by Ben Riley-Smith has been published by Hachette UK publishing house. Its modes of availability in Asia, Americas and Australia are not clear as yet.&nbsp;</em></p>

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UK Conservative Party heavyweights Boris Johnson and Rishi Sunak were not always rivals. As Johnson's fortunes went down the bunker of Partygate scandal that rocked London's political corridors in 2021, Sunak eventually became the PM after Liz Truss resigned following a brief stay at 10, Downing Street.

UK Conservative Party heavyweights Boris Johnson and Rishi Sunak were not always rivals. As Johnson's fortunes went down the bunker of Partygate scandal that rocked London's political corridors in 2021, Sunak eventually became the PM after Liz Truss resigned following a brief stay at 10, Downing Street. Sunak got the premiership after his sole competitor, Penny Mordaunt, dropped out of the race. For the much of his premiership, Johnson saw his relationship with Sunak as that of a 'mentor' and 'mentee' and when Sunak eventually quit as secretary of exchequer (akin to finance minister) 'without even a text', Johnson was aghast. "Who the f--k does he think he is?," Johnson is reported to have said with a seething reaction in a new book called 'The Right To Rule', authored by Ben Riley-Smith, the political editor of The Telegraph newspaper. The author claims in the book that Sunak had started preparing ground for his premiership bid much before February 2023, when the Sue Gray's initial investigation findings about Partygate scandal indicted Johnson of violating Covid restrictions to host parties at his official prime ministerial residences. Also read | 'Partygate scandal': 5 key takeaways from committee report accusing Boris Johnson of lockdown parties "One such indicator came in late autumn 2021, when a special adviser to then Northern Ireland Secretary Brandon Lewis overheard the Chancellor’s inner team in a Westminster pub discussing the shape of a Sunak premiership. ‘They were literally plotting out who they thought should be in various positions in the Cabinet,’ said a source familiar with what was heard," claims the book, an excerpt of which was published in The Telegraph. The timeline of this claim is significant. The alleged discussions related to Sunak's premiership occurred even before December 23, 2023, when 'ReadyforRishi' domain name was registered online, the earliest previously reported indication of Sunak's intent to canvass support for his potential premiership. Meanwhile, for Boris Johnson who was still the Prime Minister then, Sunak's potential plans of succession continued to create jitters. Sunak as UK PM: What Boris Johnson 'believed' about Narayana Murthy's role The book claims that Boris Johnson was prone to believing in political conspiracies. "One wild and unsubstantiated rumour he voiced was that Sunak’s father-in-law, Indian billionaire Narayana Murthy, had Dominic Cummings on a retainer," the book claims, while referring to British political strategist who served as Chief Advisor to British Prime Minister Boris Johnson from July 2019 to November 2020. Also read | Explained | Boris Johnson's Partygate verdict by House of Commons privileges committee During the months of Partygate upheaval, Cummings was not serving any official role in the Downing Street and had resigned in November 2020. Johnson reportedly believed that his former political aide with whom he had a fallout, was now working to boost Sunak's political fortunes. Dominic Cummings, special adviser to then Britain's Prime Minister Boris Johnson leaves 10 Downing Street, in London, Britain on November 14, 2023 | Reuters "There is no suggestion it was accurate. Yet ‘Boris believed it to be true’, according to a senior Johnson Cabinet minister cited in the book. "Despite the absence of proof, the idea of great forces thwarting him – money, a rival and a former adviser turned nemesis all wrapped up together – somehow appealed," the book says further, while referring to the way Johnson, who was already reeling under the Partygate scandal, was being outfoxed by his cabinet colleagues to succeed him if he was to lose office. "No doubt by 2022 Cummings wanted his former boss gone. He would release damning claims about Johnson in Substack blog posts after leaving Westminster. The idea that something similar was happening in private is not fanciful. But seeing a Cummings puppet master behind every negative story was incorrect. And so the narrative pushed by Johnson allies of an ‘orchestrated’ ouster – whether by Sunak or Cummings – is too convenient. It absolves him, and them, of any responsibility," the book says. 'The Right to Rule: Thirteen Years, Five Prime Ministers and the Implosion of the Tories' by Ben Riley-Smith has been published by Hachette UK publishing house. Its modes of availability in Asia, Americas and Australia are not clear as yet. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Boris Johnson 'believed' Narayana Murthy was helping Rishi Sunak to become UK PM, claims new book

A new report claims that British MPs are earning millions by moonlighting. Boris Johnson & Theresa May happen to be the biggest earners through second jobs. Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: British MPs are earning millions by moonlighting

An aide of the former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has taken her seat in the House of the Lords aged just 30. Charlotte Owen is the youngest-ever life peer to the British Parliament unelected upper chamber.

UK: Boris Johnson's former aide gets life peerage; controversy over 'young' peers |World News | WION

<p>A major breakthrough has been attained&nbsp;in UK's Partygate scandal as experts cracked the password to Boris Johnson's old phone and gained access after the former prime minister was not able to recall his password, UK's local media reports said citing a spokesman&nbsp;of the ex-PM.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The unlocking of the device is a crucial development as the UK police reopened the probe into the Partygate political scandal recently.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It is important to note that the phone is believed to possess important Covid-era communications which Johnson had with ministers. The former prime minister stopped using his old mobile phone in May 2021 after he was advised to do so due to security reasons during his tenure as the PM.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/terrorist-threatens-to-target-indias-foreign-minister-jaishankar-home-minister-amit-shah-618078">Terrorist threatens to target India's foreign minister Jaishankar, home minister Amit Shah</a></p>

<p>A spokesman for the former prime minister quoted by UK's Metro media portal said that experts have unlocked the phone and recovered ‘all relevant messages’. The former PM's representative also added that the recovered data will now be handed to the Covid inquiry ‘unredacted'.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Boris Johnson seems to have taken the news in positive spirit. Johnson's spokesman said that the former PM was "pleased that technical experts have now successfully recovered all relevant messages from the device".</p>

<p>He added that the "inquiry process requires that a security check of this material is now made by the Cabinet Office."</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/manipur-women-paraded-naked-was-spontaneous-act-say-authorities-618069">Manipur women paraded naked was 'spontaneous act', say authorities</a></p>

<p>As per Johnson's representative, the timing of any further progress in the Covid-inquiry depends on the Cabinet Office’s control. "It was always the case that Boris Johnson would pass this material to the inquiry and do everything possible to help it be recovered." the spokesman said adding, "A careful process approved by the Inquiry has been followed to ensure that this was successful."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier, a report said that the experts were wary that any attempts to crack into Johnson's iPhone could potentially end up in the deletion of its key Covid-era communications data. It was also discovered that Johnson's number was freely available online for 15 years.</p>

<h2><strong>House of Commons Privileges Committee report&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier, a report by the House of Commons Privileges Committee, published on June 15, found out that former UK prime minister Boris Johnson deliberately misled the parliament over the Partygate scandal.</p>

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<p>However, even before the committee had published its report, Boris Johnson formally submitted his resignation as a Conservative Member of Parliament.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Viral Partygate scandal video</strong>&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Amid the controversy that plagued Johnson and surrounded many UK lawmakers,&nbsp;a video surfaced which showed workers on Bailey's 2021 London mayoral campaign dancing while the capital was under Tier 2 lockdown. This event was a birthday party held for Baroness Jenkin, wife of senior Conservative MP Bernard Jenkin, in Parliament on 8 December 2020.</p>

<h2><strong>UK police reopen probe&nbsp;</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>The British police have decided to re-open two new investigations into 2020 lockdown-breaching parties after finding a new video that was not previously provided to the officers. However, they said that no further action would be taken against former prime minister Boris Johnson.</p>

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A major breakthrough has been attained in UK's Partygate scandal as experts cracked the password to Boris Johnson's old phone and gained access after the former prime minister was not able to recall his password, UK's local media reports said citing a spokesman of the ex-PM.

A major breakthrough has been attained in UK's Partygate scandal as experts cracked the password to Boris Johnson's old phone and gained access after the former prime minister was not able to recall his password, UK's local media reports said citing a spokesman of the ex-PM. The unlocking of the device is a crucial development as the UK police reopened the probe into the Partygate political scandal recently. It is important to note that the phone is believed to possess important Covid-era communications which Johnson had with ministers. The former prime minister stopped using his old mobile phone in May 2021 after he was advised to do so due to security reasons during his tenure as the PM. Also Read | Terrorist threatens to target India's foreign minister Jaishankar, home minister Amit Shah A spokesman for the former prime minister quoted by UK's Metro media portal said that experts have unlocked the phone and recovered ‘all relevant messages’. The former PM's representative also added that the recovered data will now be handed to the Covid inquiry ‘unredacted'. Boris Johnson seems to have taken the news in positive spirit. Johnson's spokesman said that the former PM was "pleased that technical experts have now successfully recovered all relevant messages from the device". He added that the "inquiry process requires that a security check of this material is now made by the Cabinet Office." Also Read | Manipur women paraded naked was 'spontaneous act', say authorities As per Johnson's representative, the timing of any further progress in the Covid-inquiry depends on the Cabinet Office’s control. "It was always the case that Boris Johnson would pass this material to the inquiry and do everything possible to help it be recovered." the spokesman said adding, "A careful process approved by the Inquiry has been followed to ensure that this was successful." Earlier, a report said that the experts were wary that any attempts to crack into Johnson's iPhone could potentially end up in the deletion of its key Covid-era communications data. It was also discovered that Johnson's number was freely available online for 15 years. House of Commons Privileges Committee report Earlier, a report by the House of Commons Privileges Committee, published on June 15, found out that former UK prime minister Boris Johnson deliberately misled the parliament over the Partygate scandal. Watch | Rainfall in India and Pakistan × However, even before the committee had published its report, Boris Johnson formally submitted his resignation as a Conservative Member of Parliament. Viral Partygate scandal video Amid the controversy that plagued Johnson and surrounded many UK lawmakers, a video surfaced which showed workers on Bailey's 2021 London mayoral campaign dancing while the capital was under Tier 2 lockdown. This event was a birthday party held for Baroness Jenkin, wife of senior Conservative MP Bernard Jenkin, in Parliament on 8 December 2020. UK police reopen probe The British police have decided to re-open two new investigations into 2020 lockdown-breaching parties after finding a new video that was not previously provided to the officers. However, they said that no further action would be taken against former prime minister Boris Johnson. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Boris Johnson's phone is finally unlocked, all 'relevant' messages recovered

<p>Britain's ruling Conservatives on Friday (July 21) won former prime minister Boris Johnson's old seat of Uxbridge and South Ruislip as Rishi Sunak avoided a wipe-out for his party in the by-elections seen as a test for his premiership. The vote was a result of the former PM standing down as an MP last month.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The by-election came amid public anger over a range of issues, with the expansion of a tax on polluting vehicles among them.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sunak was all set for a triple blow after voters went to the polls in three constituencies currently held by his party on Thursday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, winning Johnson's former seat of Uxbridge and South Ruislip by 13,965 votes to 13,470 came as an unexpected boost for Sunak. It delivered a blow to Labour leader Keir Starmer and London's Labour mayor Sadiq Khan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Victorious candidate Steve Tuckwell said, "The recognition that Boris Johnson is not on the ballot paper has been very clear."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"What we have had is people asking what will be the impact of the ULEZ," he said, referring to London Mayor Sadiq Khan's pollution tax.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Labour's historic result</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Labour achieved a historic result by winning Selby and Ainsty despite the Tories having a majority of more than 20,000 votes.&nbsp;The party said overturning the majority of 20,137 from the last general election marks the biggest majority the party has overturned at a by-election since World War II.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Conservatives also suffered a crushing defeat in the seat of Somerton and Frome, where their 19,000 majority turned into a 11,000 deficit as the Liberal Democrats won by 21,187 to 10,179.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lib Dem winner Sarah Dyke hailed a "stunning and historic victory" during her speech. She took aim at the "woeful government".</p>

<p>"We have been let down and taken for granted. This government is too busy being a circus of chaos — enough is enough," she said.</p>

<p>Starmer said that "this is a historic result" after the Selby and Ainsty victory.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Starmer said, "This is a historic result that shows that people are looking at Labour and seeing a changed party that is focused entirely on the priorities of working people with an ambitious, practical plan to deliver."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Keir Mather will be a fantastic MP who will deliver the fresh start Selby and Ainsty deserve," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It is clear just how powerful the demand for change is. Voters put their trust in us – many for the first time. After 13 years of Tory chaos, only Labour can give the country its hope, its optimism and its future back," he further said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Britain's ruling Conservatives on Friday (July 21) won former prime minister Boris Johnson's old seat of Uxbridge and South Ruislip as Rishi Sunak avoided a wipe-out for his party in the by-elections seen as a test for his premiership.

Britain's ruling Conservatives on Friday (July 21) won former prime minister Boris Johnson's old seat of Uxbridge and South Ruislip as Rishi Sunak avoided a wipe-out for his party in the by-elections seen as a test for his premiership. The vote was a result of the former PM standing down as an MP last month. The by-election came amid public anger over a range of issues, with the expansion of a tax on polluting vehicles among them. Sunak was all set for a triple blow after voters went to the polls in three constituencies currently held by his party on Thursday. However, winning Johnson's former seat of Uxbridge and South Ruislip by 13,965 votes to 13,470 came as an unexpected boost for Sunak. It delivered a blow to Labour leader Keir Starmer and London's Labour mayor Sadiq Khan. Victorious candidate Steve Tuckwell said, "The recognition that Boris Johnson is not on the ballot paper has been very clear." "What we have had is people asking what will be the impact of the ULEZ," he said, referring to London Mayor Sadiq Khan's pollution tax. Labour's historic result Labour achieved a historic result by winning Selby and Ainsty despite the Tories having a majority of more than 20,000 votes. The party said overturning the majority of 20,137 from the last general election marks the biggest majority the party has overturned at a by-election since World War II. The Conservatives also suffered a crushing defeat in the seat of Somerton and Frome, where their 19,000 majority turned into a 11,000 deficit as the Liberal Democrats won by 21,187 to 10,179. Lib Dem winner Sarah Dyke hailed a "stunning and historic victory" during her speech. She took aim at the "woeful government". "We have been let down and taken for granted. This government is too busy being a circus of chaos — enough is enough," she said. Starmer said that "this is a historic result" after the Selby and Ainsty victory. Starmer said, "This is a historic result that shows that people are looking at Labour and seeing a changed party that is focused entirely on the priorities of working people with an ambitious, practical plan to deliver." "Keir Mather will be a fantastic MP who will deliver the fresh start Selby and Ainsty deserve," he added. "It is clear just how powerful the demand for change is. Voters put their trust in us – many for the first time. After 13 years of Tory chaos, only Labour can give the country its hope, its optimism and its future back," he further said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UK by-election results: Conservatives hold Boris Johnson's former seat, avoid wipeout

Boris Johnson's Partygate legal fees cost the taxpayer more than $340,000, according to Government figures slipped out before the summer recess.

UK: Boris Johnson's Partygate defence cost taxpayer $340,000 in legal fees

A public spending watchdog has published a critical report accusing the UK government of breaking a key election pledge by the former prime minister Boris Johnson, which was a promise to build 40 new hospitals in England. Well according to the National Audit Office due to the delays in the project target is unlikely to be.

UK Public spending watchdog publishes report on Tory Pledge

The government has lost its legal challenge to prevent the Covid inquiry from seeing Boris Johnson's WhatsApps, diaries, and notebooks in full.

Boris Johnson forgot password of old phone?

<p>The authorities carrying out the UK Covid inquiry have not been able to access the WhatsApp messages that former prime minister Boris Johnson exchanged as he has apparently forgotten the password of his old mobile phone.<br />
<br />
As per media reports, Johnson is not being able to recall the passcode which was set to unlock the device, which is believed to contain crucial Covid-era communications which he had with ministers. The former prime minister stopped using his old mobile phone in May 2021.<br />
<br />
Johnson is unable to recall the passcode “with 100 per cent confidence”, according to a report published by The Times. The spokesman of the ex-Tory leader did not refute the report of him not being able to recall the code.<br />
<br />
The experts are concerned that any attempts made to unlock the iPhone may lead to the device getting disabled and deletion of its data, which included important WhatsApp messages from the pandemic, the reports stated.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-govt-loses-legal-battle-to-prevent-covid-inquiry-from-accessing-boris-johnsons-whatsapp-messages-612840">UK govt loses legal battle to prevent Covid inquiry from accessing Boris Johnson's WhatsApp messages</a></p>

<p>However, Covid-bereaved campaigners have called the idea a “complete joke”, appealing to Johnson to work along with security officials to retrieve the information.<br />
<br />
Johnson's old mobile known as “Phone 1” in Whitehall has emerged as a thorny issue ever since multiple disputes blew up between his camp and that of Rishi Sunak’s government earlier this year.<br />
<br />
The former prime minister had to turn off the device and use a new mobile after a security breach took place. It was discovered that Johnson's number was freely available online for 15 years.</p>

<h2><strong>Breakthrough in Johnson’s mobile saga</strong></h2>

<p>An ally of Johnson has claimed that the government of Sunak has finally recovered the passcode to unlock the mobile phone, as per a report published by The Independent.<br />
<br />
Allies have stated that it is incorrect to say that Johnson doesn't remember his own passcode, because he was just not entirely sure about them.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Boris Johnson lashes out at Partygate investigation as he quits as MP</strong></p>

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<p>Johnson's ally said, “It is not true that Boris does not remember his PIN number, it is just that he does not have 100 per cent confidence he remembers it. Separately, the government has found its own version of the PIN.”<br />
<br />
Speaking about the possible technical difficulties in accessing the messages, Norwegian cybersecurity company Promon Andrew Whaley said: “This is a pretty lame excuse. Provided Boris’s WhatsApp is backed up, accessing the data would take minutes. As this is a diplomatic phone, the security measures may very well be different, but even still, It’s not an impossible task by any means.”<br />
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The authorities carrying out the UK Covid inquiry have not been able to access the WhatsApp messages that former prime minister Boris Johnson exchanged as he has apparently forgotten the password of his old mobile phone.

The authorities carrying out the UK Covid inquiry have not been able to access the WhatsApp messages that former prime minister Boris Johnson exchanged as he has apparently forgotten the password of his old mobile phone. As per media reports, Johnson is not being able to recall the passcode which was set to unlock the device, which is believed to contain crucial Covid-era communications which he had with ministers. The former prime minister stopped using his old mobile phone in May 2021. Johnson is unable to recall the passcode “with 100 per cent confidence”, according to a report published by The Times. The spokesman of the ex-Tory leader did not refute the report of him not being able to recall the code. The experts are concerned that any attempts made to unlock the iPhone may lead to the device getting disabled and deletion of its data, which included important WhatsApp messages from the pandemic, the reports stated. ALSO READ | UK govt loses legal battle to prevent Covid inquiry from accessing Boris Johnson's WhatsApp messages However, Covid-bereaved campaigners have called the idea a “complete joke”, appealing to Johnson to work along with security officials to retrieve the information. Johnson's old mobile known as “Phone 1” in Whitehall has emerged as a thorny issue ever since multiple disputes blew up between his camp and that of Rishi Sunak’s government earlier this year. The former prime minister had to turn off the device and use a new mobile after a security breach took place. It was discovered that Johnson's number was freely available online for 15 years. Breakthrough in Johnson’s mobile saga An ally of Johnson has claimed that the government of Sunak has finally recovered the passcode to unlock the mobile phone, as per a report published by The Independent. Allies have stated that it is incorrect to say that Johnson doesn't remember his own passcode, because he was just not entirely sure about them. WATCH | Boris Johnson lashes out at Partygate investigation as he quits as MP Johnson's ally said, “It is not true that Boris does not remember his PIN number, it is just that he does not have 100 per cent confidence he remembers it. Separately, the government has found its own version of the PIN.” Speaking about the possible technical difficulties in accessing the messages, Norwegian cybersecurity company Promon Andrew Whaley said: “This is a pretty lame excuse. Provided Boris’s WhatsApp is backed up, accessing the data would take minutes. As this is a diplomatic phone, the security measures may very well be different, but even still, It’s not an impossible task by any means.” You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Boris Johnson 'forgets password' of phone with WhatsApp messages sought by Covid inquiry

<p>Former UK prime minister Boris Johnson has become a father again, his wife Carrie said on Tuesday, with the couple's third child, and the ex-leaders eighth, born on July 5.</p>

<p>"Welcome to the world Frank Alfred Odysseus Johnson born 5th July at 9.15am," Carrie Johnson wrote on her Instagram page, accompanied by a picture of her holding her new baby.</p>

<p>She joked "can you guess which name my husband chose?!" in reference to Johnson's well-known love of ancient Greek myths.</p>

<p>"Am loving every minute of the sleepy baby bubble. Seeing my older two embrace their new brother with such joy and excitement has been the most wonderful thing. We are all very smitten," she added.</p>

<p>Their first son Wilfred was born in April 2020, not long after Johnson was treated in hospital intensive care for Covid.</p>

<p>Daughter Romy then arrived in December 2021, again when Johnson was still Britain's prime minister.<br />
He was ousted the following summer, amid a revolt within his ruling Conservatives after a series of scandals, including Covid lockdown-breaking parties at Downing Street.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/privileges-committee-grills-boris-johnson-over-partygate-scandal-574854"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Privileges committee grills Boris Johnson over partygate scandal</strong></a></p>

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<p>The 59-year-old Johnson quit as a Tory lawmaker last month after MPs found that he had lied to parliament over his knowledge of the parties.</p>

<p>Johnson, who has been married three times, has four children from his second marriage to the lawyer Marina Wheeler and now has three with Carrie, 35, a former Conservative Party media adviser whom he wed two years ago.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/partygate-scandal-carrie-johnsons-lockdown-party-related-texts-to-be-published-483629"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Partygate scandal: Carrie Johnson's lockdown party related texts to be published?</strong></a></p>

<p>The ex-leader has another child, a daughter, from an extra-marital affair.</p>

<p>In September 2021, before Romy's birth and after years of speculation about how many children he had, Johnson confirmed to US TV network NBC in an interview that at that time he had six.</p>

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Former UK prime minister Boris Johnson has become a father again, his wife Carrie said on Tuesday, with the couple's third child, and the ex-leaders eighth, born on July 5.

Former UK prime minister Boris Johnson has become a father again, his wife Carrie said on Tuesday, with the couple's third child, and the ex-leaders eighth, born on July 5. "Welcome to the world Frank Alfred Odysseus Johnson born 5th July at 9.15am," Carrie Johnson wrote on her Instagram page, accompanied by a picture of her holding her new baby. She joked "can you guess which name my husband chose?!" in reference to Johnson's well-known love of ancient Greek myths. "Am loving every minute of the sleepy baby bubble. Seeing my older two embrace their new brother with such joy and excitement has been the most wonderful thing. We are all very smitten," she added. Their first son Wilfred was born in April 2020, not long after Johnson was treated in hospital intensive care for Covid. Daughter Romy then arrived in December 2021, again when Johnson was still Britain's prime minister. He was ousted the following summer, amid a revolt within his ruling Conservatives after a series of scandals, including Covid lockdown-breaking parties at Downing Street. WATCH | Privileges committee grills Boris Johnson over partygate scandal × The 59-year-old Johnson quit as a Tory lawmaker last month after MPs found that he had lied to parliament over his knowledge of the parties. Johnson, who has been married three times, has four children from his second marriage to the lawyer Marina Wheeler and now has three with Carrie, 35, a former Conservative Party media adviser whom he wed two years ago. Also read | Partygate scandal: Carrie Johnson's lockdown party related texts to be published? The ex-leader has another child, a daughter, from an extra-marital affair. In September 2021, before Romy's birth and after years of speculation about how many children he had, Johnson confirmed to US TV network NBC in an interview that at that time he had six. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Former UK PM Boris Johnson, wife Carrie announce birth of baby boy

The Tory party-led UK government witnessed another blow today as a UK Court turned down that quest to prevent an inquiry committee from accessing the former prime minister Boris Johnson's COVID-era messages. Now the Court ruled that the documents must be handed over to the inquiry by July 10.

UK government loses legal battle over COVID messages

UK govt loses legal battle over Boris Johnson's Covid-era messages

<p>The UK government has been unsuccessful in its legal challenge to prevent the Covid inquiry from accessing Boris Johnson's WhatsApp messages, diaries, and notebooks in their entirety. The Cabinet Office had argued that it should not be obligated to provide irrelevant material, but inquiry chair Baroness Hallett asserted that the determination of relevance should be within her purview.</p>

<p>Responding to the court's judgment, the government said that it would comply with the decision and collaborate with the inquiry team on "practical arrangements", reports BBC. The Covid inquiry said it was "pleased" with the verdict, and Baroness Hallett is expected to receive the requested material by a specified deadline of 4 pm on July 10th.</p>

<h2><strong>What the ruling means</strong></h2>

<p>The court's ruling as per BBC is likely to bolster the authority of the inquiry and its ability to demand evidence.</p>

<p>In its ruling, the court stated that inquiries should be allowed to seek out relevant documents, even if it means potentially acquiring some irrelevant material.</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/elon-musk-expects-fully-autonomous-tesla-vehicles-later-this-year-612751">Elon Musk expects fully autonomous self-driving Tesla vehicles 'later this year'</a></strong></p>

<p>The judges also suggested that the Cabinet Office could directly present its case to the inquiry regarding the relevance of certain documents.</p>

<h2><strong>Will the data be available to public?</strong></h2>

<p>The court's decision does not automatically mean that the public will have access to the documents in their entirety. The inquiry may apply its own redactions or decide against their public disclosure altogether.</p>

<p>Deborah Doyle, a spokesperson for the Covid-19 Bereaved Families for Justice UK group, criticised the government's legal challenge, stating that it was a "was a desperate waste of time and money".</p>

<p>"A successful inquiry could save thousands of lives in the event of another pandemic, and it's a disgrace that the Cabinet Office is trying to obstruct it," she added.</p>

<h2><strong>The controversy: Inquiry vs government</strong></h2>

<p>The dispute between the Covid inquiry and the government, as well as Boris Johnson himself, was sparked earlier this year when the inquiry requested access to WhatsApp messages on Johnson's devices, including those from a group chat discussing the pandemic response. The inquiry also sought messages from other politicians, including current Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, reports BBC.</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-foreign-secretary-james-cleverly-warns-against-any-direct-attacks-on-indian-high-commission-in-london-612765">UK Foreign Secretary James Cleverly warns against any direct attacks on Indian High Commission in London</a></strong></p>

<p>During the case hearing, the government expressed reluctance in challenging the inquiry's request, citing concerns about the privacy and the personal nature of some of the messages. The Cabinet Office also mentioned confidential information related to "border incursions by one foreign state into the territory of another foreign state"</p>

<p>Representing the inquiry, Hugo Keith KC argued against allowing the Cabinet Office to determine relevance, stating that it would impede the effectiveness of this and future inquiries and likening it to the government "marking its own homework".</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The UK government has been unsuccessful in its legal challenge to prevent the Covid inquiry from accessing Boris Johnson's WhatsApp messages, diaries, and notebooks in their entirety.

The UK government has been unsuccessful in its legal challenge to prevent the Covid inquiry from accessing Boris Johnson's WhatsApp messages, diaries, and notebooks in their entirety. The Cabinet Office had argued that it should not be obligated to provide irrelevant material, but inquiry chair Baroness Hallett asserted that the determination of relevance should be within her purview. Responding to the court's judgment, the government said that it would comply with the decision and collaborate with the inquiry team on "practical arrangements", reports BBC. The Covid inquiry said it was "pleased" with the verdict, and Baroness Hallett is expected to receive the requested material by a specified deadline of 4 pm on July 10th. What the ruling means The court's ruling as per BBC is likely to bolster the authority of the inquiry and its ability to demand evidence. In its ruling, the court stated that inquiries should be allowed to seek out relevant documents, even if it means potentially acquiring some irrelevant material. Also read | Elon Musk expects fully autonomous self-driving Tesla vehicles 'later this year' The judges also suggested that the Cabinet Office could directly present its case to the inquiry regarding the relevance of certain documents. Will the data be available to public? The court's decision does not automatically mean that the public will have access to the documents in their entirety. The inquiry may apply its own redactions or decide against their public disclosure altogether. Deborah Doyle, a spokesperson for the Covid-19 Bereaved Families for Justice UK group, criticised the government's legal challenge, stating that it was a "was a desperate waste of time and money". "A successful inquiry could save thousands of lives in the event of another pandemic, and it's a disgrace that the Cabinet Office is trying to obstruct it," she added. The controversy: Inquiry vs government The dispute between the Covid inquiry and the government, as well as Boris Johnson himself, was sparked earlier this year when the inquiry requested access to WhatsApp messages on Johnson's devices, including those from a group chat discussing the pandemic response. The inquiry also sought messages from other politicians, including current Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, reports BBC. Also read | UK Foreign Secretary James Cleverly warns against any direct attacks on Indian High Commission in London During the case hearing, the government expressed reluctance in challenging the inquiry's request, citing concerns about the privacy and the personal nature of some of the messages. The Cabinet Office also mentioned confidential information related to "border incursions by one foreign state into the territory of another foreign state" Representing the inquiry, Hugo Keith KC argued against allowing the Cabinet Office to determine relevance, stating that it would impede the effectiveness of this and future inquiries and likening it to the government "marking its own homework". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UK govt loses legal battle to prevent Covid inquiry from accessing Boris Johnson's WhatsApp messages

<p>The British police have decided to re-open two new investigations into 2020 lockdown-breaching parties after finding a new video that was not previously provided to the officers. But they said that no further action would be taken against former prime minister Boris Johnson.</p>

<p>Thames Valley Police and London's Metropolitan Police said the events, alleged to have taken place between June 2020 and May 2021, "do not meet the retrospective criteria for opening an investigation" into Johnson.</p>

<p>Earlier on Tuesday (July 4), the Scotland Yard said that one of the probes was related to the “jingle and mingle” Christmas party held by Shaun Bailey’s London mayoral campaign staff at CCHQ on 14 December 2020.</p>

<p>"The Met is now re-opening an investigation into potential breaches of the regulations at an event in Matthew Parker Street on 14 December 2020," it said in a press release.</p>

<p>Recently, a video surfaced of that day, showing workers on Bailey's 2021 London mayoral campaign dancing while the capital was under Tier 2 lockdown.</p>

<p>This event was a birthday party held for Baroness Jenkin, wife of senior Conservative MP Bernard Jenkin, in Parliament on 8 December 2020.</p>

<p>"Following assessment of material relating to a gathering in Parliament, the Met is opening an investigation into potential breaches of the Regulations at an event on 8 December 2020," the statement added.</p>

<h2><strong>Commons Privileges Committee</strong></h2>

<p>Bernard is a member of the Commons Privileges Committee, which last month published a highly critical report about Johnson.</p>

<p>The committee after a probe had concluded that Johnson repeatedly lied to Parliament about the parties when he assured lawmakers that rules weren’t broken.</p>

<p>The Privileges Committee recommended that Johnson be suspended from Parliament for 90 days, a sanction he escaped by quitting as a lawmaker.</p>

<p>Earlier, Johnson sought Jenkin’s resignation from the privileges committee after the Guido Fawkes website first revealed the drinks reception, accusing the committee chair of “rank hypocrisy”.</p>

<p>Bailey previously apologised "unreservedly" for the event, which he said had "turned into something" after he had left.</p>

<p>He claimed he was "very upset about the video" as he had "never seen it before".</p>

<p>Bailey, who was running to replace Sadiq Khan in the 2021 London mayoral contest, was earlier pictured at the event but was not seen in the most recent footage.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Liberal Democrats have called Mr Bailey, who was nominated for a peerage in Johnson's resignation honours, to be prevented from taking up a seat in the House of Lords.</p>

<p>"Rishi Sunak&nbsp;needs to confirm he will call for honours to be stripped from anyone found to have broken the law," said Liberal Democrat Deputy Leader Daisy Cooper, according to Sky News.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The British police have decided to re-open two new investigations into 2020 lockdown-breaching parties after finding a new video that was not previously provided to the officers.

The British police have decided to re-open two new investigations into 2020 lockdown-breaching parties after finding a new video that was not previously provided to the officers. But they said that no further action would be taken against former prime minister Boris Johnson. Thames Valley Police and London's Metropolitan Police said the events, alleged to have taken place between June 2020 and May 2021, "do not meet the retrospective criteria for opening an investigation" into Johnson. Earlier on Tuesday (July 4), the Scotland Yard said that one of the probes was related to the “jingle and mingle” Christmas party held by Shaun Bailey’s London mayoral campaign staff at CCHQ on 14 December 2020. "The Met is now re-opening an investigation into potential breaches of the regulations at an event in Matthew Parker Street on 14 December 2020," it said in a press release. Recently, a video surfaced of that day, showing workers on Bailey's 2021 London mayoral campaign dancing while the capital was under Tier 2 lockdown. This event was a birthday party held for Baroness Jenkin, wife of senior Conservative MP Bernard Jenkin, in Parliament on 8 December 2020. "Following assessment of material relating to a gathering in Parliament, the Met is opening an investigation into potential breaches of the Regulations at an event on 8 December 2020," the statement added. Commons Privileges Committee Bernard is a member of the Commons Privileges Committee, which last month published a highly critical report about Johnson. The committee after a probe had concluded that Johnson repeatedly lied to Parliament about the parties when he assured lawmakers that rules weren’t broken. The Privileges Committee recommended that Johnson be suspended from Parliament for 90 days, a sanction he escaped by quitting as a lawmaker. Earlier, Johnson sought Jenkin’s resignation from the privileges committee after the Guido Fawkes website first revealed the drinks reception, accusing the committee chair of “rank hypocrisy”. Bailey previously apologised "unreservedly" for the event, which he said had "turned into something" after he had left. He claimed he was "very upset about the video" as he had "never seen it before". Bailey, who was running to replace Sadiq Khan in the 2021 London mayoral contest, was earlier pictured at the event but was not seen in the most recent footage. Meanwhile, Liberal Democrats have called Mr Bailey, who was nominated for a peerage in Johnson's resignation honours, to be prevented from taking up a seat in the House of Lords. "Rishi Sunak needs to confirm he will call for honours to be stripped from anyone found to have broken the law," said Liberal Democrat Deputy Leader Daisy Cooper, according to Sky News. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

British police say no new 'Partygate' probe to be initiated against Boris Johnson

<p>British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's government on Friday asked London's High Court to stop a public&nbsp;enquiry&nbsp;into its handling of the Covid&nbsp;pandemic forcing it to hand over some internal WhatsApp messages.<br />
<br />
Britain's Cabinet Office refused to provide WhatsApp messages concerning the government's handling of the pandemic and other political issues earlier this month, saying some of the material sought was "unambiguously irrelevant".<br />
<br />
The&nbsp;enquiry&nbsp;was ordered by the government itself in 2021 and is chaired by a former senior judge, Heather Hallett, who asked the government to provide two years' worth of WhatsApp messages between senior figures, including former prime minister Boris Johnson and 40 different individuals.<br />
<br />
However, the Cabinet Office has brought a legal challenge over the&nbsp;enquiry's&nbsp;demands, which its lawyer James Eadie told the court was brought "with some considerable reluctance".<br />
<br />
He argued in court filings that documents relevant to the&nbsp;enquiry&nbsp;"simply cannot cover all government business and all the policy areas that were live over the two-year period".</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/british-pm-rishi-sunak-found-using-pen-with-erasable-ink-to-sign-official-documents-make-notes-609565">British PM Rishi Sunak found using pen with erasable ink to sign official documents, make notes</a></strong></p>

<p><br />
Eadie added the WhatsApp messages contained references to personal and family information and "comments of a personal nature" about identifiable government figures.<br />
<br />
But lawyers representing Hallett said the limits the Cabinet Office sought to place on public inquiries' powers to compel the production of documents was "flawed and unworkable".<br />
<br />
Hugo Keith said in court filings that the relevance of material is kept under review, saying a witness statement provided by Johnson earlier this month led to the relevance of previously-provided WhatsApp messages being reassessed.<br />
<br />
"Material that had been redacted by the Cabinet Office as 'unambiguously irrelevant' is now assessed as relevant in light of Mr Johnson's statement," Keith said.<br />
<br />
Johnson is an interested party to the Cabinet Office's case and his lawyers argue the government's legal challenge should be dismissed.<br />
<br />
"Mr Johnson has no objection to the&nbsp;enquiry&nbsp;inspecting the materials unredacted, subject to appropriate security and confidentiality arrangements," they said in court filings.</p>

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British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's government on Friday asked London's High Court to stop a public enquiry into its handling of the Covid pandemic forcing it to hand over some internal WhatsApp messages.

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's government on Friday asked London's High Court to stop a public enquiry into its handling of the Covid pandemic forcing it to hand over some internal WhatsApp messages. Britain's Cabinet Office refused to provide WhatsApp messages concerning the government's handling of the pandemic and other political issues earlier this month, saying some of the material sought was "unambiguously irrelevant". The enquiry was ordered by the government itself in 2021 and is chaired by a former senior judge, Heather Hallett, who asked the government to provide two years' worth of WhatsApp messages between senior figures, including former prime minister Boris Johnson and 40 different individuals. However, the Cabinet Office has brought a legal challenge over the enquiry's demands, which its lawyer James Eadie told the court was brought "with some considerable reluctance". He argued in court filings that documents relevant to the enquiry "simply cannot cover all government business and all the policy areas that were live over the two-year period". Also read | British PM Rishi Sunak found using pen with erasable ink to sign official documents, make notes Eadie added the WhatsApp messages contained references to personal and family information and "comments of a personal nature" about identifiable government figures. But lawyers representing Hallett said the limits the Cabinet Office sought to place on public inquiries' powers to compel the production of documents was "flawed and unworkable". Hugo Keith said in court filings that the relevance of material is kept under review, saying a witness statement provided by Johnson earlier this month led to the relevance of previously-provided WhatsApp messages being reassessed. "Material that had been redacted by the Cabinet Office as 'unambiguously irrelevant' is now assessed as relevant in light of Mr Johnson's statement," Keith said. Johnson is an interested party to the Cabinet Office's case and his lawyers argue the government's legal challenge should be dismissed. "Mr Johnson has no objection to the enquiry inspecting the materials unredacted, subject to appropriate security and confidentiality arrangements," they said in court filings. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

UK asks court to curb powers of COVID-19 enquiry to see WhatsApp messages

Boris Johnson has become a writer for the Daily Mail, but this has sparked a new controversy. The ex-parliamentarian has breached a 'ministerial code'. What is the 'ministerial code'? Molly Gambhir brings you all the details.

Gravitas: Boris Johnson takes up a new job | BoJo breaches the 'ministerial code'

<p>The House of Commons in Britain has overwhelmingly supported a report that accuses former Prime Minister Boris Johnson of lying to lawmakers regarding lockdown-breaching parties held in his office. This resounding endorsement represents a significant rebuke, resulting in Johnson being deprived of his lifelong access to Parliament. Lawmakers backed the findings by 354 votes to 7.</p>

<h2><strong>Conservative leaders thrash Johnson</strong></h2>

<p>During the debate, Members of Parliament (MPs) emphasised the importance of demonstrating to the public that politicians are bound by the same rules and are obligated to tell the truth. Theresa May, Johnson's predecessor as prime minister and a Conservative Party lawmaker, stated, "It is important to show the public that there is not one rule for them and another for us."</p>

<p>Penny Mordaunt, the House of Commons Leader and a Conservative member like Johnson, urged fellow MPs to vote according to their conscience and announced her support for the report by the Commons' Privileges Committee. Mordaunt emphasised the significance of upholding the integrity of institutions and the resulting implications for accountability.</p>

<h2><strong>Rishi Sunak, Boris absent from the debate</strong></h2>

<p>There were also a few of Johnson's allies who defended him during the debate. Legislator Lia Nici said that “I cannot see where the evidence is where Boris Johnson misled Parliament knowingly, intentionally or recklessly.” However, the majority of Conservative and opposition lawmakers expressed their support for the report. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, wary of enraging Johnson's remaining supporters, did not participate in the debate, citing other commitments.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: Boris Johnson takes up a new job | BoJo breaches the 'ministerial code'</strong></p>

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<p>Johnson himself, who celebrated his 59th birthday on Monday, was not present as he had resigned as prime minister in September 2022 and subsequently stepped down as a lawmaker on June 9, following the announcement of the Privileges Committee's findings.</p>

<p>The debate on Monday stemmed from the ongoing "partygate" scandal, which centres around gatherings that took place in Johnson's Downing Street office and other government buildings in 2020 and 2021.</p>

<h2><strong>Boris returns to journalism</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, Boris Johnson has been named as a new columnist for the Daily Mail newspaper. This marks a return to his previous career in journalism, where he has written for various prominent British publications, albeit being dismissed from one for fabricating a quote.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boris-johnson-breaks-ministerial-code-with-daily-mail-column-role-605337"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;UK: Ex-PM Boris Johnson breaks ministerial code with Daily Mail columnist role</strong></a></p>

<p>Johnson's column is expected to provide him with a lucrative platform to express his opinions on the government and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, appealing to the readership of this widely-read right-leaning newspaper.</p>

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The House of Commons in Britain has overwhelmingly supported a report that accuses former Prime Minister Boris Johnson of lying to lawmakers regarding lockdown-breaching parties held in his office.

The House of Commons in Britain has overwhelmingly supported a report that accuses former Prime Minister Boris Johnson of lying to lawmakers regarding lockdown-breaching parties held in his office. This resounding endorsement represents a significant rebuke, resulting in Johnson being deprived of his lifelong access to Parliament. Lawmakers backed the findings by 354 votes to 7. Conservative leaders thrash Johnson During the debate, Members of Parliament (MPs) emphasised the importance of demonstrating to the public that politicians are bound by the same rules and are obligated to tell the truth. Theresa May, Johnson's predecessor as prime minister and a Conservative Party lawmaker, stated, "It is important to show the public that there is not one rule for them and another for us." Penny Mordaunt, the House of Commons Leader and a Conservative member like Johnson, urged fellow MPs to vote according to their conscience and announced her support for the report by the Commons' Privileges Committee. Mordaunt emphasised the significance of upholding the integrity of institutions and the resulting implications for accountability. Rishi Sunak, Boris absent from the debate There were also a few of Johnson's allies who defended him during the debate. Legislator Lia Nici said that “I cannot see where the evidence is where Boris Johnson misled Parliament knowingly, intentionally or recklessly.” However, the majority of Conservative and opposition lawmakers expressed their support for the report. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, wary of enraging Johnson's remaining supporters, did not participate in the debate, citing other commitments. Watch: Gravitas: Boris Johnson takes up a new job | BoJo breaches the 'ministerial code' × Johnson himself, who celebrated his 59th birthday on Monday, was not present as he had resigned as prime minister in September 2022 and subsequently stepped down as a lawmaker on June 9, following the announcement of the Privileges Committee's findings. The debate on Monday stemmed from the ongoing "partygate" scandal, which centres around gatherings that took place in Johnson's Downing Street office and other government buildings in 2020 and 2021. Boris returns to journalism Meanwhile, Boris Johnson has been named as a new columnist for the Daily Mail newspaper. This marks a return to his previous career in journalism, where he has written for various prominent British publications, albeit being dismissed from one for fabricating a quote. Also read: UK: Ex-PM Boris Johnson breaks ministerial code with Daily Mail columnist role Johnson's column is expected to provide him with a lucrative platform to express his opinions on the government and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, appealing to the readership of this widely-read right-leaning newspaper. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

UK MPs overwhelmingly back report slamming Boris Johnson for ‘partygate’

<p>Conservative Party aides in the United Kingdom were invited for a “Jingle and Mingle” event during the 2020 COVID-19-induced lockdown, as per an invitation seen by BBC, reported on Monday (June 18). This came a day after Mirror news outlet released a 45-second video which purportedly shows Tory staff drinking and dancing as they appear to joke about “bending” Covid lockdown rules in December 2020.</p>

<h2><strong>‘Jingle and Mingle’ event: Who was invited?</strong></h2>

<p>The invite was reportedly sent to 30 people on behalf of former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s now ex-aide Ben Mallet amid Tier 2 Covid restrictions in London. The restrictions in question had banned indoor socialising.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Image of the invite procured by BBC shows a Christmas theme “Jingle and Mingle” party “save the date” for December 14 at 6:00 pm and reads “For the Shaun Bailey for London holiday party”.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-housing-secretary-michael-gove-sorry-after-clip-shows-tory-members-in-lockdown-party-606034">UK housing secretary Michael Gove sorry after clip shows Tory members at lockdown party</a></strong></p>

<p>The Conservative Party has said that four people were disciplined over the event, but has not named them. The infamous lockdown parties at the Tory party’s headquarters were organised by the campaign team for Shaun Bailey, who was running for London mayor at the time the video was filmed.</p>

<p>Notably, a spokesperson for Mallet who was also the campaign director for the Conservative Party’s candidate in 2021 said that he did not send out the invitation himself and it was sent by an administrator, reported BBC.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>The Covid party footage released</strong></h2>

<p>The invitation procured by BBC was also released a day after the Mirror released a video which is said to be that of the Tory staff drinking and dancing. The UK’s Metropolitan Police has since said that they are in the midst of assessing the video.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/partygate-scandal-5-key-takeaways-from-committee-report-accusing-boris-johnson-on-lockdown-parties-604914">'Partygate scandal': 5 key takeaways from committee report accusing Boris Johnson of lockdown parties</a></strong></p>

<p>“We are aware of a video showing a December 2020 event that was previously the subject of an investigation into alleged Covid breaches. Officers are assessing that video,” the UK police told the Mirror.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Though the Daily Mirror provided still images from the footage, Bailey himself is not visible in the film. He had earlier apologised for attending the party. According to BBC, Bailey said that the event “turned into something” after he had left and claimed he was “very upset about the video” as he had “never seen it before”.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Lockdown rules at the time</strong></h2>

<p>During the lockdown, London was placed under Tier 2 Covid restrictions, which bar people from socialising indoors, except with members of their household or a support bubble.</p>

<p>However, the people who wanted to socialise at that time were allowed to do so in a garden or at a pub with outdoor seating, but the authorities had limited such gatherings to six people.<br />
<br />
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Conservative Party aides in the United Kingdom were invited for a “Jingle and Mingle” event during the 2020 COVID-19-induced lockdown, as per an invitation seen by BBC, reported on Monday (June 18).

Conservative Party aides in the United Kingdom were invited for a “Jingle and Mingle” event during the 2020 COVID-19-induced lockdown, as per an invitation seen by BBC, reported on Monday (June 18). This came a day after Mirror news outlet released a 45-second video which purportedly shows Tory staff drinking and dancing as they appear to joke about “bending” Covid lockdown rules in December 2020. ‘Jingle and Mingle’ event: Who was invited? The invite was reportedly sent to 30 people on behalf of former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s now ex-aide Ben Mallet amid Tier 2 Covid restrictions in London. The restrictions in question had banned indoor socialising. Image of the invite procured by BBC shows a Christmas theme “Jingle and Mingle” party “save the date” for December 14 at 6:00 pm and reads “For the Shaun Bailey for London holiday party”. ALSO READ | UK housing secretary Michael Gove sorry after clip shows Tory members at lockdown party The Conservative Party has said that four people were disciplined over the event, but has not named them. The infamous lockdown parties at the Tory party’s headquarters were organised by the campaign team for Shaun Bailey, who was running for London mayor at the time the video was filmed. Notably, a spokesperson for Mallet who was also the campaign director for the Conservative Party’s candidate in 2021 said that he did not send out the invitation himself and it was sent by an administrator, reported BBC. The Covid party footage released The invitation procured by BBC was also released a day after the Mirror released a video which is said to be that of the Tory staff drinking and dancing. The UK’s Metropolitan Police has since said that they are in the midst of assessing the video. ALSO READ | 'Partygate scandal': 5 key takeaways from committee report accusing Boris Johnson of lockdown parties “We are aware of a video showing a December 2020 event that was previously the subject of an investigation into alleged Covid breaches. Officers are assessing that video,” the UK police told the Mirror. Though the Daily Mirror provided still images from the footage, Bailey himself is not visible in the film. He had earlier apologised for attending the party. According to BBC, Bailey said that the event “turned into something” after he had left and claimed he was “very upset about the video” as he had “never seen it before”. Lockdown rules at the time During the lockdown, London was placed under Tier 2 Covid restrictions, which bar people from socialising indoors, except with members of their household or a support bubble. However, the people who wanted to socialise at that time were allowed to do so in a garden or at a pub with outdoor seating, but the authorities had limited such gatherings to six people. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UK: Tory members were called for ‘Jingle and Mingle’ party during Covid lockdown, shows invitation

<p>Former UK prime minister, Boris Johnson, has been accused of a "clear breach" of the ministerial code by not seeking clearance for his new role as a columnist for the Daily Mail from parliamentary authorities.&nbsp;The committee responsible for vetting ex-ministers' appointments stated that Johnson informed them only 30 minutes before the news became public.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Despite his resignation as an MP, he is still required to seek advice from the Advisory Committee on Business Appointments (Acoba) for two years after leaving ministerial office.&nbsp;Acoba has sought an explanation from Johnson over the breach. Johnson's spokesperson stated that he is following the normal process by staying in touch with Acoba.</p>

<h2><strong>Acoba's criticism&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Acoba, chaired by Conservative peer Lord Pickles, aims to ensure that there are no suspicions when former ministers or senior officials take up new jobs.&nbsp;However, some critics view Acoba as ineffective, with deputy Labour leader Angela Rayner asserting that Johnson is once again breaking the rules and taking advantage of a flawed system.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ex-uk-police-watchdog-chief-charged-with-rape-of-teen-girl-indecent-assault-605180">Ex-UK police watchdog chief charged with rape of teen girl, indecent assault</a></p>

<p>Acoba lacks the power to enforce its recommendations or punish rule-breaking MPs but can issue public rebukes. In a statement, it said, "The ministerial code states that ministers must ensure that no new appointments are announced, or taken up, before the committee has been able to provide its advice."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blasts-air-raid-sirens-greet-african-peace-mission-leaders-visiting-kyiv-605173">Blasts, air raid sirens greet African ‘peace mission’ leaders visiting Kyiv</a></p>

<p>"An application received 30 mins before an appointment is announced is a clear breach," Acoba said adding, "We have written to Mr Johnson for an explanation and will publish correspondence in due course, in line with our policy of transparency."</p>

<h2><strong>Daily Mail column</strong></h2>

<p>Boris Johnson's first weekly column for the Daily Mail appeared online on Friday afternoon. In that, Johnson avoided discussing politics and recent events, fulfilling his promise to focus on other topics. Johnson, in a video shared by the paper, said, "I am thrilled to have been asked to contribute a column to the Daily Mail. It is going to be completely unexpurgated stuff. I may even have to cover politics, but I'll obviously try to do that as little as possible unless I absolutely have to."</p>

<h2><strong>Past rule-breaking incidents</strong></h2>

<p>Previously, Johnson was found to have violated the rules when he took up a £275,000 per year column with the Telegraph shortly after stepping down as foreign secretary.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | India: Five terrorists killed in Kashmir</strong></p>

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<p>Acoba deemed it "unacceptable" that Johnson had not sought its advice beforehand. His Telegraph column became a platform for opposing former Prime Minister Theresa May's Brexit plans and promoting his own leadership aspirations.&nbsp;Johnson's new role with the Daily Mail might offer him the opportunity to criticise UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, with whom he has clashed recently over the resignation honours list, said media reports.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Parliamentary vote on Partygate report</strong></h2>

<p>Johnson has asked his supporters not to vote against a report that found him deliberately misleading Parliament regarding the Partygate scandal.&nbsp;Some of his allies, including Nadine Dorries, had expressed intentions to oppose the findings in a Commons vote. The main recommendation of the report is a 90-day suspension from Parliament, but Johnson has already resigned as an MP.</p>

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Former UK prime minister, Boris Johnson, has been accused of a "clear breach" of the ministerial code by not seeking clearance for his new role as a columnist for the Daily Mail from parliamentary authorities.

Former UK prime minister, Boris Johnson, has been accused of a "clear breach" of the ministerial code by not seeking clearance for his new role as a columnist for the Daily Mail from parliamentary authorities. The committee responsible for vetting ex-ministers' appointments stated that Johnson informed them only 30 minutes before the news became public. Despite his resignation as an MP, he is still required to seek advice from the Advisory Committee on Business Appointments (Acoba) for two years after leaving ministerial office. Acoba has sought an explanation from Johnson over the breach. Johnson's spokesperson stated that he is following the normal process by staying in touch with Acoba. Acoba's criticism Acoba, chaired by Conservative peer Lord Pickles, aims to ensure that there are no suspicions when former ministers or senior officials take up new jobs. However, some critics view Acoba as ineffective, with deputy Labour leader Angela Rayner asserting that Johnson is once again breaking the rules and taking advantage of a flawed system. Also Read | Ex-UK police watchdog chief charged with rape of teen girl, indecent assault Acoba lacks the power to enforce its recommendations or punish rule-breaking MPs but can issue public rebukes. In a statement, it said, "The ministerial code states that ministers must ensure that no new appointments are announced, or taken up, before the committee has been able to provide its advice." Also Read | Blasts, air raid sirens greet African ‘peace mission’ leaders visiting Kyiv "An application received 30 mins before an appointment is announced is a clear breach," Acoba said adding, "We have written to Mr Johnson for an explanation and will publish correspondence in due course, in line with our policy of transparency." Daily Mail column Boris Johnson's first weekly column for the Daily Mail appeared online on Friday afternoon. In that, Johnson avoided discussing politics and recent events, fulfilling his promise to focus on other topics. Johnson, in a video shared by the paper, said, "I am thrilled to have been asked to contribute a column to the Daily Mail. It is going to be completely unexpurgated stuff. I may even have to cover politics, but I'll obviously try to do that as little as possible unless I absolutely have to." Past rule-breaking incidents Previously, Johnson was found to have violated the rules when he took up a £275,000 per year column with the Telegraph shortly after stepping down as foreign secretary. Watch | India: Five terrorists killed in Kashmir × Acoba deemed it "unacceptable" that Johnson had not sought its advice beforehand. His Telegraph column became a platform for opposing former Prime Minister Theresa May's Brexit plans and promoting his own leadership aspirations. Johnson's new role with the Daily Mail might offer him the opportunity to criticise UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, with whom he has clashed recently over the resignation honours list, said media reports. Parliamentary vote on Partygate report Johnson has asked his supporters not to vote against a report that found him deliberately misleading Parliament regarding the Partygate scandal. Some of his allies, including Nadine Dorries, had expressed intentions to oppose the findings in a Commons vote. The main recommendation of the report is a 90-day suspension from Parliament, but Johnson has already resigned as an MP. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

UK: Ex-PM Boris Johnson breaks ministerial code with Daily Mail columnist role

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe - UK: Bypoll for Johnson's seat scheduled for July 20, Russia seeks int'l investigation, Ramaphosa leads African Peace Mission, Zelensky praises US legislation on frozen Russian assets, Russia and Algeria Presidents meet.

UK: Bypoll for Johnson's seat scheduled for July 20 | Russia seeks int'l investigation

<p>A UK parliamentary committee has released a report stating that former prime minister Boris Johnson intentionally deceived lawmakers regarding his knowledge of numerous parties that violated lockdown restrictions at his office and government buildings during the COVID-19 pandemic.</p>

<p>The committee, consisting of seven members from both the Conservative Party and opposition parties, was established in April 2022 to investigate Johnson's actions during the "Partygate" scandal, which involved unauthorised gatherings attended by Johnson and his staff. The findings of the committee ultimately contributed to Boris Johnson's downfall.</p>

<h2><strong>Here are the key findings from the report</strong></h2>

<h2><strong>1. Investigation&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The committee's main objective was to examine Johnson's statements to the House of Commons regarding gatherings at Downing Street between 2020 and 2021. They assessed whether any misleading statements were genuine errors or intentional and reckless acts, as well as whether corrective actions were taken promptly.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ex-harvard-medical-school-morgue-manager-indicted-for-stealing-selling-human-remains-604855">Ex-Harvard Medical School morgue manager indicted for stealing, selling human remains</a></p>

<p>The committee emphasised that this investigation was of significant importance, as misleading the House of Commons is a matter that strikes at the core of democracy.</p>

<h2><strong>2. Details of the gatherings</strong></h2>

<p>The report provided evidence of six gatherings held in government buildings, contrary to the strict social distancing rules that Johnson himself had been advocating for on television.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealands-biggest-meth-bust-with-drug-hidden-in-maple-syrup-bottles-six-arrested-604782">New Zealand's biggest meth bust with drug hidden in maple syrup bottles, six arrested</a></p>

<p>These events included farewell parties for staff and a Christmas drinks event. Johnson was present at some of these gatherings, including one in May 2020 where alcohol was provided, and over 200 people were invited. Another event took place in June 2020 in the Cabinet Room to celebrate Johnson's birthday, with at least 17 other attendees present.&nbsp;Johnson and others were later fined by the police.</p>

<h2><strong>3. Johnson's statements on these events</strong></h2>

<p>Johnson repeatedly assured parliament that all COVID-19 rules and guidelines were followed at Downing Street and claimed to have relied on advisors' repeated assurances that no rules were broken. He argued that the gatherings were essential for work purposes, specifically to boost staff morale.</p>

<h2><strong>4. Committee's conclusions</strong></h2>

<p>The committee concluded that as the leading promoter of the government's COVID-19 rules and guidance, Johnson was fully aware of what was not permitted at the time and had knowledge of rule breaches at Downing Street.</p>

<p>UK parliamentary committee deemed it highly improbable that he genuinely believed the rules were being followed. It determined that Johnson misled parliament by failing to disclose his awareness of the rule-breaking events, stating that he deliberately distorted his statements to avoid their true meaning. They characterised his conduct as intentional and serious contempt of the House.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | UK MPs publish Partygate report&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>“We came to the view that some of Mr Johnson’s denials and explanations were so disingenuous that they were by their very nature deliberate attempts to mislead the Committee and the House, while others demonstrated deliberation because of the frequency with which he closed his mind to the truth,” the report said, adding, “We conclude that Mr Johnson’s conduct was deliberate and that he has committed a serious contempt of the House."</p>

<h2><strong>5. Sanctions proposed</strong></h2>

<p>The committee recommended a 90-day suspension for Johnson from the House of Commons due to his repeated contempt and attempts to undermine the parliamentary process.</p>

<p>Additionally, they suggested revoking his former member's pass to access parliament's grounds. However, Johnson preemptively avoided suspension by resigning as a lawmaker before the report's publication.</p>

<p>Lawmakers are set to vote on Monday on whether to uphold the committee's recommendations, and Johnson's supporters may propose amendments to reduce the proposed sanctions. One interesting point to note here is that even if the sanctions are imposed, they would not prevent Johnson from seeking re-election as a lawmaker in the future.</p>

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A UK parliamentary committee has released a report stating that former prime minister Boris Johnson intentionally deceived lawmakers regarding his knowledge of numerous parties that violated lockdown restrictions at his office and government buildings during the COVID-19 pandemic.

A UK parliamentary committee has released a report stating that former prime minister Boris Johnson intentionally deceived lawmakers regarding his knowledge of numerous parties that violated lockdown restrictions at his office and government buildings during the COVID-19 pandemic. The committee, consisting of seven members from both the Conservative Party and opposition parties, was established in April 2022 to investigate Johnson's actions during the "Partygate" scandal, which involved unauthorised gatherings attended by Johnson and his staff. The findings of the committee ultimately contributed to Boris Johnson's downfall. Here are the key findings from the report 1. Investigation The committee's main objective was to examine Johnson's statements to the House of Commons regarding gatherings at Downing Street between 2020 and 2021. They assessed whether any misleading statements were genuine errors or intentional and reckless acts, as well as whether corrective actions were taken promptly. Also Read | Ex-Harvard Medical School morgue manager indicted for stealing, selling human remains The committee emphasised that this investigation was of significant importance, as misleading the House of Commons is a matter that strikes at the core of democracy. 2. Details of the gatherings The report provided evidence of six gatherings held in government buildings, contrary to the strict social distancing rules that Johnson himself had been advocating for on television. Also Read | New Zealand's biggest meth bust with drug hidden in maple syrup bottles, six arrested These events included farewell parties for staff and a Christmas drinks event. Johnson was present at some of these gatherings, including one in May 2020 where alcohol was provided, and over 200 people were invited. Another event took place in June 2020 in the Cabinet Room to celebrate Johnson's birthday, with at least 17 other attendees present. Johnson and others were later fined by the police. 3. Johnson's statements on these events Johnson repeatedly assured parliament that all COVID-19 rules and guidelines were followed at Downing Street and claimed to have relied on advisors' repeated assurances that no rules were broken. He argued that the gatherings were essential for work purposes, specifically to boost staff morale. 4. Committee's conclusions The committee concluded that as the leading promoter of the government's COVID-19 rules and guidance, Johnson was fully aware of what was not permitted at the time and had knowledge of rule breaches at Downing Street. UK parliamentary committee deemed it highly improbable that he genuinely believed the rules were being followed. It determined that Johnson misled parliament by failing to disclose his awareness of the rule-breaking events, stating that he deliberately distorted his statements to avoid their true meaning. They characterised his conduct as intentional and serious contempt of the House. Watch | UK MPs publish Partygate report × “We came to the view that some of Mr Johnson’s denials and explanations were so disingenuous that they were by their very nature deliberate attempts to mislead the Committee and the House, while others demonstrated deliberation because of the frequency with which he closed his mind to the truth,” the report said, adding, “We conclude that Mr Johnson’s conduct was deliberate and that he has committed a serious contempt of the House." 5. Sanctions proposed The committee recommended a 90-day suspension for Johnson from the House of Commons due to his repeated contempt and attempts to undermine the parliamentary process. Additionally, they suggested revoking his former member's pass to access parliament's grounds. However, Johnson preemptively avoided suspension by resigning as a lawmaker before the report's publication. Lawmakers are set to vote on Monday on whether to uphold the committee's recommendations, and Johnson's supporters may propose amendments to reduce the proposed sanctions. One interesting point to note here is that even if the sanctions are imposed, they would not prevent Johnson from seeking re-election as a lawmaker in the future. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

'Partygate scandal': 5 key takeaways from committee report accusing Boris Johnson of lockdown parties

<p>The jury of the House of Commons&nbsp;privileges committee is out on&nbsp;former UK prime minister and Tory leader Boris Johnson in relation to the infamous Partygate row which quickly snowballed into a scandal whose avalanche pushed the Conservative populist out of Downing Street.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The privileges committee report said that Johnson should be denied automatic access to parliament for intentionally misleading lawmakers over rule-breaking Covid lockdown parties.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Johnson called the findings "rubbish" and accused the&nbsp;committee members of waging a vendetta against him.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/partygate-scandal-boris-johnson-intentionally-misled-uk-parliament-report-finds-604718">Partygate scandal: Boris Johnson intentionally misled UK parliament, report finds</a></strong></p>

<p>"I believed, correctly, that these events were reasonably necessary for work purposes. We were managing a pandemic," he said in a statement.</p>

<p>He said the report marked a "dreadful day" for members of parliament (MP) and for democracy. "This decision means that no MP is free from vendetta, or expulsion on trumped up charges by a tiny minority who want to see him or her gone from the Commons," he said.</p>

<p>He accused the committee of using mystical powers to see things that he had not seen at Downing Street, when, he said, he was duty-bound to thank staff who were departing or for their work on COVID-19. The committee did not accept his defence.</p>

<p>The privileges committee, however, rejected Johnson's defence that the gatherings were within the rules and that his advisers had supported his belief.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Boris Johnson lashes out at Partygate investigation as he quits as MP</strong></p>

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<p>Instead, it said, Johnson was "deliberately disingenuous when he tried to reinterpret his statements to the House to avoid their plain meaning and reframe the clear impression that he intended to give".</p>

<p>It said that was Johnson still a member of parliament, it would have recommended a suspension from the House of Commons for 90 days.</p>

<h2><strong>What is the privileges committee?</strong></h2>

<p>Committees are bodies in the parliament which examine issues such as laws or policies in more detail.</p>

<p>The House of Commons Privileges Committee investigates cases that "may prevent or hinder" the work of Parliament.</p>

<h2><strong>Boris Johnson Partygate Privileges Committee: The members</strong></h2>

<p>The privileges committee, whose report on the Partygate scandal was published on June 15, was constituted of four Conservative Party&nbsp;MPs (Sir Bernard Jenkin, Sir Charles Walker, Andy Carter and Alberto Costa), two members are the Labour Party (Harriet Harman and Yvonne Fovargue) and one representative of the Scottish Nationalist Party (Allan Dorans).</p>

<p>The rules state the chair has to be a member of the official opposition party. Harriet Harman of the Labour Party was unanimously elected to the post in June 2022.</p>

<h2><strong>The Partygate scandal: Privileges Committee's findings</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>The committee accused Johnson of being "complicit in a campaign of abuse and attempted intimidation" towards them.</p>

<p>The more than 100-page report details six events held at Downing Street, the prime minister's offices and residence.</p>

<p>"We conclude that in deliberately misleading the House, Johnson committed a serious contempt," the committee said: "The contempt was all the more serious because it was committed by the prime minister, the most senior member of the government. There is no precedent for a prime minister having been found to have deliberately misled the House (of Commons, the lower house of parliament)."</p>

<p>It recommended that he should not be entitled to a former member’s pass, which enables most former prime ministers and former lawmakers to gain automatic access to parliament.</p>

<h2><strong>What does it mean?</strong></h2>

<p>Its conclusions have been described as a new low for Boris Johnson, who in 2019, led the governing Conservatives to a landslide election victory. The stand-off will do little to heal the deep divisions in the Conservative Party.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What next?</strong></h2>

<p>The UK Parliament will consider the committee's recommendation on Monday.&nbsp;Johnson, however,&nbsp;had already quit as a member of parliament last week before the report's publication after reportedly seeing an advance copy of the same.</p>

<p>Boris Johnson was widely criticised for describing the committee as "a kangaroo court" in his resignation statement.</p>

<p>Johnson's conduct was referred to the committee after a vote in the House of Commons in April 2022. It did not call for evidence until June 2022, once the police investigation into Partygate had finished.</p>

<h2><strong>Opposition's reaction</strong></h2>

<p>The Labour Party said the report was "damning".</p>

<p>"While Rishi Sunak is distracted with the ongoing Tory soap opera people are crying out for leadership on the issues that matter to them," said Thangam Debbonaire, a member of Labour's top team was quoted as saying by Reuters.</p>

<p>The Partygate scandal spelt the beginning of the end of Johnson's&nbsp;tenure as prime minister.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A rebellion in his governing Conservative Party last year followed, when ministers resigned en masse, forcing him in July to say he would step down.</p>

<p>He left office in September and was succeeded by Liz Truss at 10, Downing Street.</p>

<p>Truss, too, resigned shortly afterwards, paving the way for current Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.</p>

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The jury of the House of Commons privileges committee is out on former UK prime minister and Tory leader Boris Johnson in relation to the infamous Partygate row which quickly snowballed into a scandal whose avalanche pushed the Conservative populist out of Downing Street.

The jury of the House of Commons privileges committee is out on former UK prime minister and Tory leader Boris Johnson in relation to the infamous Partygate row which quickly snowballed into a scandal whose avalanche pushed the Conservative populist out of Downing Street. The privileges committee report said that Johnson should be denied automatic access to parliament for intentionally misleading lawmakers over rule-breaking Covid lockdown parties. Johnson called the findings "rubbish" and accused the committee members of waging a vendetta against him. Also read | Partygate scandal: Boris Johnson intentionally misled UK parliament, report finds "I believed, correctly, that these events were reasonably necessary for work purposes. We were managing a pandemic," he said in a statement. He said the report marked a "dreadful day" for members of parliament (MP) and for democracy. "This decision means that no MP is free from vendetta, or expulsion on trumped up charges by a tiny minority who want to see him or her gone from the Commons," he said. He accused the committee of using mystical powers to see things that he had not seen at Downing Street, when, he said, he was duty-bound to thank staff who were departing or for their work on COVID-19. The committee did not accept his defence. The privileges committee, however, rejected Johnson's defence that the gatherings were within the rules and that his advisers had supported his belief. Also watch | Boris Johnson lashes out at Partygate investigation as he quits as MP × Instead, it said, Johnson was "deliberately disingenuous when he tried to reinterpret his statements to the House to avoid their plain meaning and reframe the clear impression that he intended to give". It said that was Johnson still a member of parliament, it would have recommended a suspension from the House of Commons for 90 days. What is the privileges committee? Committees are bodies in the parliament which examine issues such as laws or policies in more detail. The House of Commons Privileges Committee investigates cases that "may prevent or hinder" the work of Parliament. Boris Johnson Partygate Privileges Committee: The members The privileges committee, whose report on the Partygate scandal was published on June 15, was constituted of four Conservative Party MPs (Sir Bernard Jenkin, Sir Charles Walker, Andy Carter and Alberto Costa), two members are the Labour Party (Harriet Harman and Yvonne Fovargue) and one representative of the Scottish Nationalist Party (Allan Dorans). The rules state the chair has to be a member of the official opposition party. Harriet Harman of the Labour Party was unanimously elected to the post in June 2022. The Partygate scandal: Privileges Committee's findings The committee accused Johnson of being "complicit in a campaign of abuse and attempted intimidation" towards them. The more than 100-page report details six events held at Downing Street, the prime minister's offices and residence. "We conclude that in deliberately misleading the House, Johnson committed a serious contempt," the committee said: "The contempt was all the more serious because it was committed by the prime minister, the most senior member of the government. There is no precedent for a prime minister having been found to have deliberately misled the House (of Commons, the lower house of parliament)." It recommended that he should not be entitled to a former member’s pass, which enables most former prime ministers and former lawmakers to gain automatic access to parliament. What does it mean? Its conclusions have been described as a new low for Boris Johnson, who in 2019, led the governing Conservatives to a landslide election victory. The stand-off will do little to heal the deep divisions in the Conservative Party. What next? The UK Parliament will consider the committee's recommendation on Monday. Johnson, however, had already quit as a member of parliament last week before the report's publication after reportedly seeing an advance copy of the same. Boris Johnson was widely criticised for describing the committee as "a kangaroo court" in his resignation statement. Johnson's conduct was referred to the committee after a vote in the House of Commons in April 2022. It did not call for evidence until June 2022, once the police investigation into Partygate had finished. Opposition's reaction The Labour Party said the report was "damning". "While Rishi Sunak is distracted with the ongoing Tory soap opera people are crying out for leadership on the issues that matter to them," said Thangam Debbonaire, a member of Labour's top team was quoted as saying by Reuters. The Partygate scandal spelt the beginning of the end of Johnson's tenure as prime minister. A rebellion in his governing Conservative Party last year followed, when ministers resigned en masse, forcing him in July to say he would step down. He left office in September and was succeeded by Liz Truss at 10, Downing Street. Truss, too, resigned shortly afterwards, paving the way for current Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Explained | Boris Johnson's Partygate verdict by House of Commons privileges committee

Former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson has called for Conservative member on the privileges committee to resign, he claimed the Tory MP Bernard Jenkin himself attended a birthday party in Parliament during Covid restrictions.

Boris Johnson calls for Tory MP on panel to resign from 'Partygate' probe

<p>Former UK prime minister Boris Johnson deliberately misled the parliament over the Partygate scandal, the House of Commons Privileges Committee found in its report published on June 15. The committee said that it would have&nbsp;recommended a 90-day suspension for the former prime minister but given the damning findings of the report, he "should not be granted a former members’ pass".</p>

<p>The 30,000-word document found that the former Tory leader&nbsp;committed multiple contempt of parliament, breached&nbsp;confidence, and impugned the committee and the democratic process of the house.</p>

<p>The report found Johnson&nbsp;"complicit in the campaign of abuse and attempted intimidation of the committee".</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-2">The privileges committee is&nbsp;the main disciplinary body for lawmakers in the United Kingdom, akin to a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) in India.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-2"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-58-boris-johnson-braces-to-embrace-fatherhood-for-eighth-time-594510">At 58, UK ex-PM Boris Johnson to embrace fatherhood for eighth time</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The more than 100-page report details six events held at Downing Street, the prime minister's offices and residence.</p>

<p>"We conclude that in deliberately misleading the House Mr Johnson committed a serious contempt," the committee said.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Boris Johnson quits ahead of party-gate report</strong></p>

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<p>"The contempt was all the more serious because it was committed by the prime minister, the most senior member of the government. There is no precedent for a prime minister having been found to have deliberately misled the House (of Commons, lower house of parliament)."</p>

<h2><strong>Johnson responds</strong></h2>

<p>Boris Johnson responded to the privileges committee's findings, repeating that "the guidance was followed completely".&nbsp;</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-1">He called the findings "rubbish".</p>

<p>"It wasn’t just what I thought: it’s what we all thought – that we were following the rules and following the guidance completely – notwithstanding the difficulties of maintaining social distancing at all times," Johnson said in his defence.</p>

<h2><strong>What will happen to Boris Johnson now?</strong></h2>

<p>Johnson had already quit as a member of parliament last week before the report's publication.</p>

<p>He has accused the privileges committee, a parliamentary standards body that has investigated Johnson, of mounting a "witch-hunt" and behaving like a "kangaroo court", the claims he repeated in his aforementioned clarification immediately after the report's publication.</p>

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Former UK prime minister Boris Johnson deliberately misled the parliament over the Partygate scandal, the House of Commons Privileges Committee found in its report published on June 15.

Former UK prime minister Boris Johnson deliberately misled the parliament over the Partygate scandal, the House of Commons Privileges Committee found in its report published on June 15. The committee said that it would have recommended a 90-day suspension for the former prime minister but given the damning findings of the report, he "should not be granted a former members’ pass". The 30,000-word document found that the former Tory leader committed multiple contempt of parliament, breached confidence, and impugned the committee and the democratic process of the house. The report found Johnson "complicit in the campaign of abuse and attempted intimidation of the committee". The privileges committee is the main disciplinary body for lawmakers in the United Kingdom, akin to a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) in India. Also read | At 58, UK ex-PM Boris Johnson to embrace fatherhood for eighth time The more than 100-page report details six events held at Downing Street, the prime minister's offices and residence. "We conclude that in deliberately misleading the House Mr Johnson committed a serious contempt," the committee said. Also watch | Boris Johnson quits ahead of party-gate report × "The contempt was all the more serious because it was committed by the prime minister, the most senior member of the government. There is no precedent for a prime minister having been found to have deliberately misled the House (of Commons, lower house of parliament)." Johnson responds Boris Johnson responded to the privileges committee's findings, repeating that "the guidance was followed completely". He called the findings "rubbish". "It wasn’t just what I thought: it’s what we all thought – that we were following the rules and following the guidance completely – notwithstanding the difficulties of maintaining social distancing at all times," Johnson said in his defence. What will happen to Boris Johnson now? Johnson had already quit as a member of parliament last week before the report's publication. He has accused the privileges committee, a parliamentary standards body that has investigated Johnson, of mounting a "witch-hunt" and behaving like a "kangaroo court", the claims he repeated in his aforementioned clarification immediately after the report's publication. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Partygate scandal: Boris Johnson intentionally misled UK parliament, report finds

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<p>An inquiry into the UK government's handling of the Covid pandemic will open later on Tuesday (June 13). According to a report by the news agency AFP, the inquiry chair, retired senior judge Heather Hallett, called for former prime minister Boris Johnson's unredacted WhatsApp messages and notebooks to be handed over, prompting a legal challenge from the government of Rishi Sunak.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The UK suffered one of worst Covid death tolls across Europe. The first phase of Tuesday's inquiry would focus on the country's resilience and preparedness in the face of the global health emergency.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The inquiry, which was established by Johnson in 2021, will be split up into six sections and begin with an opening statement from Heather Hallett. It will then be followed by a short film showing the impact of the pandemic.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Relatives of victims lash out</strong></h2>

<p>The report said that the relatives of Covid victims condemned the decision not to include any of them in the inquiry's first six-week phase. The Covid Bereaved Families for Justice group had put forward 20 people to be considered as witnesses for the first module but said none were called to give evidence.</p>

<p>Group member Barbara Herbert, who lost her husband to the virus, said, "Without learning from the experiences of our members, how can the inquiry properly evaluate the decisions made by those in charge?"</p>

<p>Saleyha Ahsan, a doctor whose father also succumbed to Covid, said "We are people that will be able to put reality to the theory that Hallett is testing, that has got to happen, otherwise it's just a farce."</p>

<p>Citing an inquiry spokesperson, AFP reported the chair had not ruled out calling testimony from bereaved people in later phases of the probe.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The first phase of the inquiry gets underway today, and later phases would focus on how the country's health service coped with Covid, vaccines and therapeutics, government procurement, and the impact on the care sector.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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An inquiry into the UK government's handling of the Covid pandemic will open later on Tuesday (June 13). According to a report by the news agency AFP, the inquiry chair, retired senior judge Heather Hallett, called for former prime minister Boris Johnson's unredacted WhatsApp messages and notebooks to be handed over, prompting a legal challenge from the government of Rishi Sunak.

An inquiry into the UK government's handling of the Covid pandemic will open later on Tuesday (June 13). According to a report by the news agency AFP, the inquiry chair, retired senior judge Heather Hallett, called for former prime minister Boris Johnson's unredacted WhatsApp messages and notebooks to be handed over, prompting a legal challenge from the government of Rishi Sunak. The UK suffered one of worst Covid death tolls across Europe. The first phase of Tuesday's inquiry would focus on the country's resilience and preparedness in the face of the global health emergency. The inquiry, which was established by Johnson in 2021, will be split up into six sections and begin with an opening statement from Heather Hallett. It will then be followed by a short film showing the impact of the pandemic. Relatives of victims lash out The report said that the relatives of Covid victims condemned the decision not to include any of them in the inquiry's first six-week phase. The Covid Bereaved Families for Justice group had put forward 20 people to be considered as witnesses for the first module but said none were called to give evidence. Group member Barbara Herbert, who lost her husband to the virus, said, "Without learning from the experiences of our members, how can the inquiry properly evaluate the decisions made by those in charge?" Saleyha Ahsan, a doctor whose father also succumbed to Covid, said "We are people that will be able to put reality to the theory that Hallett is testing, that has got to happen, otherwise it's just a farce." Citing an inquiry spokesperson, AFP reported the chair had not ruled out calling testimony from bereaved people in later phases of the probe. The first phase of the inquiry gets underway today, and later phases would focus on how the country's health service coped with Covid, vaccines and therapeutics, government procurement, and the impact on the care sector. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UK Covid inquiry set to open after nation suffered one of the worst death tolls in Europe

The much-awaited report about Partygate from the Privileges Committee is now out. The MPs have concluded that former Prime Minister Boris Johnson deliberately misled MPs over Partygate. As per the report, Johnson already had knowledge of COVID rules and guidelines therefore he was also aware that the parties that took place inside number 10 were a breach of the same. Watch to know more about the report findings.

Privileges Committee report: Boris Johnson deliberately misled MPs

UK MPs publish Partygate report | English Latest news

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