<a href="https://www.wionews.com/europe/british-pm-race-top-horse-boris-johnson-faces-court-hearing-for-brexit-lies-222520">Boris Johnson</a>, who has pledged to deliver Brexit on October&nbsp;31, edged closer to power on Thursday when he won by far the most support from Conservative Party lawmakers in the first round of the contest to replace Prime Minister Theresa May.

Johnson got 114 votes, with Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt in second place on 43 votes and Environment Minister Michael Gove third with 37 votes.

Three candidates -- Andrea Leadsom, Esther McVey and Mark Harper -- were eliminated after they failed to receive the required minimum of 17 votes.

The former foreign secretary, 54, says he would get Britain out of the EU "deal or no deal" when the October 31 deadline set by EU leaders comes around.

But he has also said a no-deal Brexit would be "a last resort, not something that anybody desires".

He has threatened to withhold the country's Brexit bill if the EU does not offer improved withdrawal terms, and to scrap a controversial provision for the Irish border contained in the current divorce deal -- both of which would be unacceptable to Brussels.

A figurehead in the 2016 Brexit campaign, he was May's foreign secretary until he resigned over her Brexit strategy.

Charismatic and popular with grassroots Conservatives, he is seen as the favourite in the race, scooping up a growing number of pledges of support from cabinet members and MPs.

Johnson picked up 114 votes in the first round of voting by Conservative MPs in the leadership race on Thursday.

Boris Johnson, who has pledged to deliver Brexit on October 31, edged closer to power on Thursday when he won by far the most support from Conservative Party lawmakers in the first round of the contest to replace Prime Minister Theresa May.

Boris Johnson, who has pledged to deliver Brexit on October 31, edged closer to power on Thursday when he won by far the most support from Conservative Party lawmakers in the first round of the contest to replace Prime Minister Theresa May. Johnson got 114 votes, with Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt in second place on 43 votes and Environment Minister Michael Gove third with 37 votes. Three candidates -- Andrea Leadsom, Esther McVey and Mark Harper -- were eliminated after they failed to receive the required minimum of 17 votes. The former foreign secretary, 54, says he would get Britain out of the EU "deal or no deal" when the October 31 deadline set by EU leaders comes around. But he has also said a no-deal Brexit would be "a last resort, not something that anybody desires". He has threatened to withhold the country's Brexit bill if the EU does not offer improved withdrawal terms, and to scrap a controversial provision for the Irish border contained in the current divorce deal -- both of which would be unacceptable to Brussels. A figurehead in the 2016 Brexit campaign, he was May's foreign secretary until he resigned over her Brexit strategy. Charismatic and popular with grassroots Conservatives, he is seen as the favourite in the race, scooping up a growing number of pledges of support from cabinet members and MPs. Johnson picked up 114 votes in the first round of voting by Conservative MPs in the leadership race on Thursday.

Boris Johnson 'delighted' to win first round of race for British Prime Minister

Boris Johnson launches his campaign Wednesday to replace Theresa May as Britain's next leader, as lawmakers moved to stop him and other hardliners from delivering a "no deal" Brexit.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-candidate-johnson-criticised-for-avoiding-scrutiny-226261">former foreign secretary </a>is the favourite among 10 candidates to succeed May, who quit after failing to take Britain out of the European Union on schedule.

May has delayed Brexit twice -- most recently to October 31 -- as she tried and failed to get her divorce deal through parliament.

Johnson, a leading figure in the 2016 referendum vote to leave, has said he <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boris-johnson-wins-brexit-case-hounding-his-leadership-bid-225320">will deliver on the result</a> with or without a deal with Brussels.

"After three years and two missed deadlines, we must leave the EU on October 31," he said ahead of his official campaign launch.

He warned that failure would see the ruling Conservatives lose at the next election to leftist leader Jeremy Corbyn's Labour party.

"Delay means defeat. Delay means Corbyn. Kick the can and we kick the bucket," he said.

However, opposition parties backed by some Conservatives are putting forward a motion in parliament's lower House of Commons to seek to block any attempt to leave the EU with no deal.

They fear that severing ties overnight with Britain's biggest trading partner would bring huge economic disruption.

In a repeat of moves earlier this year, the MPs will try to take control of the Commons timetable on June 25, which would allow them to introduce a law that might stop "no deal".

"The Tory debate on Brexit has descended into the disturbing, ludicrous and reckless," said Labour Brexit spokesman Keir Starmer.&nbsp;

"We can't be bystanders while the next prime minister forces through a no-deal without the consent of the British people."

Johnson has a chequered history, arguably known more for his gaffes and jokes than his achievements both as mayor of London and foreign minister.

But he has a national presence, known across Britain just as Boris, and is seen as more charismatic than his rivals.

He warned that Corbyn must not be allowed to win an election.

"The last time I faced an emanation of that Marxist cabal I defeated him when the Conservatives were 17 points behind in London," he said.

"And we can do it again."

Boris Johnson launches his campaign Wednesday to replace Theresa May as Britain's next leader, as lawmakers moved to stop him and other hardliners from delivering a "no deal" Brexit.

Boris Johnson launches his campaign Wednesday to replace Theresa May as Britain's next leader, as lawmakers moved to stop him and other hardliners from delivering a "no deal" Brexit. The former foreign secretary is the favourite among 10 candidates to succeed May, who quit after failing to take Britain out of the European Union on schedule. May has delayed Brexit twice -- most recently to October 31 -- as she tried and failed to get her divorce deal through parliament. Johnson, a leading figure in the 2016 referendum vote to leave, has said he will deliver on the result with or without a deal with Brussels. "After three years and two missed deadlines, we must leave the EU on October 31," he said ahead of his official campaign launch. He warned that failure would see the ruling Conservatives lose at the next election to leftist leader Jeremy Corbyn's Labour party. "Delay means defeat. Delay means Corbyn. Kick the can and we kick the bucket," he said. However, opposition parties backed by some Conservatives are putting forward a motion in parliament's lower House of Commons to seek to block any attempt to leave the EU with no deal. They fear that severing ties overnight with Britain's biggest trading partner would bring huge economic disruption. In a repeat of moves earlier this year, the MPs will try to take control of the Commons timetable on June 25, which would allow them to introduce a law that might stop "no deal". "The Tory debate on Brexit has descended into the disturbing, ludicrous and reckless," said Labour Brexit spokesman Keir Starmer. "We can't be bystanders while the next prime minister forces through a no-deal without the consent of the British people." Johnson has a chequered history, arguably known more for his gaffes and jokes than his achievements both as mayor of London and foreign minister. But he has a national presence, known across Britain just as Boris, and is seen as more charismatic than his rivals. He warned that Corbyn must not be allowed to win an election. "The last time I faced an emanation of that Marxist cabal I defeated him when the Conservatives were 17 points behind in London," he said. "And we can do it again."

Boris Johnson launches UK leadership bid as MPs warn on Brexit

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boris-johnson-must-broaden-appeal-to-win-any-united-kingdom-election-pollster-224598">Boris Johnson</a>, the favourite to succeed British Prime Minister Theresa May, was criticised on Tuesday by a rival who said the former foreign minister was avoiding public scrutiny in the contest.

After three years of political deadlock over Brexit, the ruling Conservative Party is picking a new leader from 10 different candidates and hopes to have a new prime minister in place by the end of July.

Johnson, who led the official Brexit campaign in the 2016 referendum, is the frontrunner to replace May despite a long record of scandals and gaffes. Betting markets give him a 60 per cent probability of winning the top job.

But rivals have turned on Johnson over his pledges to cut taxes for the wealthy, deliver Brexit with or without an exit deal and his apparent desire to keep a low profile.

When asked about Johnson, rival Matt Hancock said,&nbsp;"I certainly think that everybody who puts their name forward to be prime minister should be open to scrutiny, should be accountable.

"Everybody should participate in the proposed TV debates. And I think we've got to ask the question,&nbsp;why not?" he told BBC radio. "I've got nothing to hide and that's why I am here."

A spokesman for Johnson did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Johnson left his home in London on Tuesday morning without comment, a Reuters reporter at the scene said. He is due to begin his campaign on Wednesday.

"Time to come out of your bunker, Boris" the Daily Mail, Britain's second-most-read newspaper, said in an editorial.

"Usually he positively craves media attention ... Yet for weeks now he has been stuck in his trench, dribbling out vague policy ideas," the newspaper said.

Rivals say he is avoiding the limelight because the contest is his to lose -- a stray word or poorly placed joke could deprive him of his best chance at getting Britain's top job.

'Boris'

Johnson originally made his name as a European Union-bashing journalist in Brussels, then entered politics in the Conservative Party. He also raised his profile through a series of appearances on a television comedy.

Known in Britain and beyond for his clownish persona and dishevelled mop of platinum hair, Johnson upset some Europeans before Britain's Brexit referendum by comparing the goals of the EU with those of Adolf Hitler and Napoleon.

His quick wit and eccentric style helped him shrug off a series of scandals, among them, getting sacked from the party’s policy team while in opposition for lying about an extra-marital affair. That and other episodes earned him the tabloid nickname "Bonking Boris".

But where others would have floundered, Johnson became increasingly popular, culminating in his two victories in usually left-leaning London’s mayoral contests in 2008 and 2012.

He was considered a favourite for the top job when David Cameron resigned after the 2016 referendum. But his close ally, Michael Gove, abruptly deserted him and announced his own candidacy.

Gove, again one of his main rivals for the leadership, on Monday taunted Johnson.

"If I get through, which I am sure I will, actually, to the final two against Mr Johnson, this is what I will say to him, 'Mr Johnson, whatever you do, don’t pull out, I know you have before, and I know you may not believe in your heart that you can do it, but the Conservative Party membership deserve a choice'," Gove said.

Boris Johnson, the favourite to succeed British Prime Minister Theresa May, was criticised on Tuesday by a rival who said the former foreign minister was avoiding public scrutiny in the contest.

Boris Johnson, the favourite to succeed British Prime Minister Theresa May, was criticised on Tuesday by a rival who said the former foreign minister was avoiding public scrutiny in the contest. After three years of political deadlock over Brexit, the ruling Conservative Party is picking a new leader from 10 different candidates and hopes to have a new prime minister in place by the end of July. Johnson, who led the official Brexit campaign in the 2016 referendum, is the frontrunner to replace May despite a long record of scandals and gaffes. Betting markets give him a 60 per cent probability of winning the top job. But rivals have turned on Johnson over his pledges to cut taxes for the wealthy, deliver Brexit with or without an exit deal and his apparent desire to keep a low profile. When asked about Johnson, rival Matt Hancock said, "I certainly think that everybody who puts their name forward to be prime minister should be open to scrutiny, should be accountable. "Everybody should participate in the proposed TV debates. And I think we've got to ask the question, why not?" he told BBC radio. "I've got nothing to hide and that's why I am here." A spokesman for Johnson did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Johnson left his home in London on Tuesday morning without comment, a Reuters reporter at the scene said. He is due to begin his campaign on Wednesday. "Time to come out of your bunker, Boris" the Daily Mail, Britain's second-most-read newspaper, said in an editorial. "Usually he positively craves media attention ... Yet for weeks now he has been stuck in his trench, dribbling out vague policy ideas," the newspaper said. Rivals say he is avoiding the limelight because the contest is his to lose -- a stray word or poorly placed joke could deprive him of his best chance at getting Britain's top job. 'Boris' Johnson originally made his name as a European Union-bashing journalist in Brussels, then entered politics in the Conservative Party. He also raised his profile through a series of appearances on a television comedy. Known in Britain and beyond for his clownish persona and dishevelled mop of platinum hair, Johnson upset some Europeans before Britain's Brexit referendum by comparing the goals of the EU with those of Adolf Hitler and Napoleon. His quick wit and eccentric style helped him shrug off a series of scandals, among them, getting sacked from the party’s policy team while in opposition for lying about an extra-marital affair. That and other episodes earned him the tabloid nickname "Bonking Boris". But where others would have floundered, Johnson became increasingly popular, culminating in his two victories in usually left-leaning London’s mayoral contests in 2008 and 2012. He was considered a favourite for the top job when David Cameron resigned after the 2016 referendum. But his close ally, Michael Gove, abruptly deserted him and announced his own candidacy. Gove, again one of his main rivals for the leadership, on Monday taunted Johnson. "If I get through, which I am sure I will, actually, to the final two against Mr Johnson, this is what I will say to him, 'Mr Johnson, whatever you do, don’t pull out, I know you have before, and I know you may not believe in your heart that you can do it, but the Conservative Party membership deserve a choice'," Gove said.

UK PM candidate Boris Johnson criticised for avoiding scrutiny

<p content="London (AFP) - The contest to replace Theresa May as Britain's next leader formally got under way on Monday, with frontrunner Boris Johnson facing criticism from Paris over his Brexit plan and a key rival struggling to throw off a drugs scandal." data-reactid="45" type="text">The contest to replace Theresa May as Britain's next leader formally got underway on Monday, with frontrunner <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-kingdoms-pm-candidate-johnson-plans-tax-cuts-telegraph-225881">Boris Johnson</a> facing criticism from Paris over his Brexit plan and a key rival struggling to throw off a drugs scandal.

<p content="Eleven candidates have declared their interest in succeeding May, who quit as her Conservative party's leader on Friday over her failure to take Britain out of the EU on time." data-reactid="46" type="text">Eleven candidates have declared their interest in succeeding May, who quit as her Conservative party's leader on Friday over her failure to take Britain out of the EU on time. She remains prime minister until a new leader is chosen, likely in late July, and they will automatically enter Downing Street.

<p content="The race has been dominated by Britain's looming EU exit on October 31, with Johnson among those talking tough on the need to renegotiate the terms May struck or leave with no deal." data-reactid="48" type="text">The race has been dominated by Britain's looming EU exit on October 31, with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boris-johnson-wins-brexit-case-hounding-his-leadership-bid-225320">Johnson</a> among those talking tough on the need to renegotiate the terms May struck or leave with no deal.

<p content="But his vow to refuse to pay the multi-billion-euro financial settlement she has agreed, covering Britain's liabilities from four decades of EU membership, drew a sharp rebuke from Paris." data-reactid="49" type="text">But his vow to refuse to pay the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uks-boris-johnson-threatens-to-withhold-50-billion-brexit-payment-225603">multi-billion-euro financial settlement</a> she has agreed, covering Britain's liabilities from four decades of EU membership, drew a sharp rebuke from Paris.

<p content="&quot;Not honouring payment obligations is a breach of international commitment equivalent to a default on its sovereign debt, with the consequences that we know,&quot; a source close to French President Emmanuel Macron told AFP." data-reactid="50" type="text">"Not honouring payment obligations is a breach of international commitment equivalent to a default on its sovereign debt, with the consequences that we know," a source close to French President Emmanuel Macron told AFP.

<p content="Johnson is the bookmakers' favourite but has not appeared in public for weeks, a tactic that has helped the politician best known for his gaffes, jokes and anecdotes to stay on message." data-reactid="51" type="text">Johnson is the bookmakers' favourite but has not appeared in public for weeks, a tactic that has helped the politician best known for his gaffes, jokes and anecdotes to stay on message.

While his rivals have been touring the broadcast studios, he announced his latest campaign promise -- to slash income tax -- in his regular newspaper column.

<p content="By contrast, another leading candidate, Environment Secretary Michael Gove, spent the weekend apologising after revealing he had taken cocaine on several occasions two decades ago." data-reactid="53" type="text">By contrast, another leading candidate, Environment Secretary Michael Gove, spent the weekend apologising after revealing he had taken cocaine on several occasions two decades ago.

<p content="By contrast, another leading candidate, Environment Secretary Michael Gove, spent the weekend apologising after revealing he had taken cocaine on several occasions two decades ago." data-reactid="53" type="text">Serious times

May took over after the 2016 EU referendum but was forced to quit after failing three times to get her divorce deal through parliament, and twice delaying Brexit.

Johnson and Gove were both leading campaigners for Brexit in the referendum, but while the former quit the government over May's approach, Gove stayed on.

<p content="The pair have history -- Gove dramatically withdrew his backing for Johnson during the 2016 leadership campaign, only to falter himself, clearing the way for May." data-reactid="57" type="text">The pair have history -- Gove dramatically withdrew his backing for Johnson during the 2016 leadership campaign, only to falter himself, clearing the way for May.

<p content="The 51-year-old's campaign this time has been hit by the revelation in a forthcoming biography of his illegal use of cocaine, which he admitted but said was a mistake." data-reactid="58" type="text">The 51-year-old's campaign this time has been hit by the revelation in a forthcoming biography of his illegal use of cocaine, which he admitted but said was a mistake.

He suffered another blow on Monday when his cabinet colleague Amber Rudd, a moderate on Brexit, endorsed Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt for the leadership.

<p content="Gove has taken a softer line on Britain's EU departure than Johnson, suggesting he might delay Brexit once again to try to avoid a damaging &quot;no deal&quot; exit." data-reactid="60" type="text">Gove has taken a softer line on Britain's EU departure than Johnson, suggesting he might delay Brexit once again to try to avoid a damaging "no deal" exit.

Meanwhile, Hunt claimed at that weekend that he had received encouraging signals for renegotiating the Brexit deal from German Chancellor Angela Merkel.

<p content="In response, a German government spokeswoman referenced a previous remark by Merkel that the deal cannot be reopened, although a declaration on future ties could be." data-reactid="62" type="text">In response, a German government spokeswoman referenced a previous remark by Merkel that the deal cannot be reopened, although a declaration on future ties could be.

<p content="Health Secretary Matt Hancock, Interior Minister Sajid Javid, former Brexit minister Dominic Raab and Commons leader Andrea Leadsom are also in the running among several others." data-reactid="63" type="text">Health Secretary Matt Hancock, Interior Minister Sajid Javid, former Brexit minister Dominic Raab and Commons leader Andrea Leadsom are also in the running among several others.

<p content="Each must have the support of at least eight Conservative MPs to stand. In a series of secret ballots running from June 13 to 20, MPs will then whittle down the field to a final pair." data-reactid="64" type="text">Each must have the support of at least eight Conservative MPs to stand. In a series of secret ballots running from June 13 to 20, MPs will then whittle down the field to a final pair.

These two will then be chosen in a postal ballot by more than 160,000 paying party members.

<p content="Johnson emphasises his appeal across the political divide, a persuasive argument as there is a real risk of a general election if the parliamentary deadlock over Brexit remains." data-reactid="66" type="text">Johnson emphasises his appeal across the political divide, a persuasive argument as there is a real risk of a general election if the parliamentary deadlock over Brexit remains.

<p content="The Tories are under pressure from both leftist Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn and populist Nigel Farage, whose new Brexit Party has been poaching disgruntled Tory voters." data-reactid="67" type="text">The Tories are under pressure from both leftist Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn and populist Nigel Farage, whose new Brexit Party has been poaching disgruntled Tory voters.

<p content="But Johnson's bombastic rhetoric has alienated many colleagues and voters, he has been accused of lying during the Brexit campaign and his time as foreign minister was underwhelming." data-reactid="68" type="text">But Johnson's bombastic rhetoric has alienated many colleagues and voters, he has been accused of lying during the Brexit campaign and his time as foreign minister was underwhelming.

In endorsing Hunt, Rudd said: "These are serious times and we need a respected statesman who Brussels will listen to, not more bluster."

The contest to replace Theresa May as Britain's next leader formally got underway on Monday, with frontrunner Boris Johnson facing criticism from Paris over his Brexit plan and a key rival struggling to throw off a drugs scandal.

The contest to replace Theresa May as Britain's next leader formally got underway on Monday, with frontrunner Boris Johnson facing criticism from Paris over his Brexit plan and a key rival struggling to throw off a drugs scandal. Eleven candidates have declared their interest in succeeding May, who quit as her Conservative party's leader on Friday over her failure to take Britain out of the EU on time. She remains prime minister until a new leader is chosen, likely in late July, and they will automatically enter Downing Street. The race has been dominated by Britain's looming EU exit on October 31, with Johnson among those talking tough on the need to renegotiate the terms May struck or leave with no deal. But his vow to refuse to pay the multi-billion-euro financial settlement she has agreed, covering Britain's liabilities from four decades of EU membership, drew a sharp rebuke from Paris. "Not honouring payment obligations is a breach of international commitment equivalent to a default on its sovereign debt, with the consequences that we know," a source close to French President Emmanuel Macron told AFP. Johnson is the bookmakers' favourite but has not appeared in public for weeks, a tactic that has helped the politician best known for his gaffes, jokes and anecdotes to stay on message. While his rivals have been touring the broadcast studios, he announced his latest campaign promise -- to slash income tax -- in his regular newspaper column. By contrast, another leading candidate, Environment Secretary Michael Gove, spent the weekend apologising after revealing he had taken cocaine on several occasions two decades ago. Serious times May took over after the 2016 EU referendum but was forced to quit after failing three times to get her divorce deal through parliament, and twice delaying Brexit. Johnson and Gove were both leading campaigners for Brexit in the referendum, but while the former quit the government over May's approach, Gove stayed on. The pair have history -- Gove dramatically withdrew his backing for Johnson during the 2016 leadership campaign, only to falter himself, clearing the way for May. The 51-year-old's campaign this time has been hit by the revelation in a forthcoming biography of his illegal use of cocaine, which he admitted but said was a mistake. He suffered another blow on Monday when his cabinet colleague Amber Rudd, a moderate on Brexit, endorsed Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt for the leadership. Gove has taken a softer line on Britain's EU departure than Johnson, suggesting he might delay Brexit once again to try to avoid a damaging "no deal" exit. Meanwhile, Hunt claimed at that weekend that he had received encouraging signals for renegotiating the Brexit deal from German Chancellor Angela Merkel. In response, a German government spokeswoman referenced a previous remark by Merkel that the deal cannot be reopened, although a declaration on future ties could be. Health Secretary Matt Hancock, Interior Minister Sajid Javid, former Brexit minister Dominic Raab and Commons leader Andrea Leadsom are also in the running among several others. Each must have the support of at least eight Conservative MPs to stand. In a series of secret ballots running from June 13 to 20, MPs will then whittle down the field to a final pair. These two will then be chosen in a postal ballot by more than 160,000 paying party members. Johnson emphasises his appeal across the political divide, a persuasive argument as there is a real risk of a general election if the parliamentary deadlock over Brexit remains. The Tories are under pressure from both leftist Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn and populist Nigel Farage, whose new Brexit Party has been poaching disgruntled Tory voters. But Johnson's bombastic rhetoric has alienated many colleagues and voters, he has been accused of lying during the Brexit campaign and his time as foreign minister was underwhelming. In endorsing Hunt, Rudd said: "These are serious times and we need a respected statesman who Brussels will listen to, not more bluster."

Drugs and Brexit: Race to replace United Kingdom's May under way

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uks-boris-johnson-threatens-to-withhold-50-billion-brexit-payment-225603">Boris Johnson</a>, the front-runner to become Britain's next prime minister, said on Sunday he wanted to cut business taxes and relieve the income tax burden on some workers.

The contest to replace Prime Minister Theresa May begins in earnest on Monday after she resigned last week as Conservative Party leader, having failed to unite her party or deliver Brexit on time.

Writing in his weekly column, Johnson - the face of Brexit for many Britons after he led the 2016 campaign to leave the European Union - outlined his approach to lower taxation.

"We should be cutting business taxes," he wrote, without elaborating.

Watch: Will Boris Johnson be the next UK PM?

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Johnson, a former foreign minister and mayor of London who resigned in protest at May's Brexit strategy, is the bookmakers' favourite to win the leadership battle that will play out over the next six weeks.

The Telegraph reported separately that he would raise the point at which workers begin paying a 40 per cent income tax to 80,000 pounds ($101,824) from 50,000 pounds.

The move would cost 9.6 billion pounds ($12.2 billion)annually and be partly funded by using money set aside in the current budget to deal with the consequences of Brexit, the paper reported.

"We should be raising thresholds of income tax – so that we help the huge numbers that have been captured in the higher rate by fiscal drag. We can go for much greater economic growth – and still be the cleanest, greenest society on earth."

&nbsp;

Boris Johnson, the front-runner to become Britain's next prime minister, said on Sunday he wanted to cut business taxes and relieve the income tax burden on some workers.

Boris Johnson, the front-runner to become Britain's next prime minister, said on Sunday he wanted to cut business taxes and relieve the income tax burden on some workers. The contest to replace Prime Minister Theresa May begins in earnest on Monday after she resigned last week as Conservative Party leader, having failed to unite her party or deliver Brexit on time. Writing in his weekly column, Johnson - the face of Brexit for many Britons after he led the 2016 campaign to leave the European Union - outlined his approach to lower taxation. "We should be cutting business taxes," he wrote, without elaborating. Watch: Will Boris Johnson be the next UK PM? Johnson, a former foreign minister and mayor of London who resigned in protest at May's Brexit strategy, is the bookmakers' favourite to win the leadership battle that will play out over the next six weeks. The Telegraph reported separately that he would raise the point at which workers begin paying a 40 per cent income tax to 80,000 pounds ($101,824) from 50,000 pounds. The move would cost 9.6 billion pounds ($12.2 billion)annually and be partly funded by using money set aside in the current budget to deal with the consequences of Brexit, the paper reported. "We should be raising thresholds of income tax – so that we help the huge numbers that have been captured in the higher rate by fiscal drag. We can go for much greater economic growth – and still be the cleanest, greenest society on earth."

United Kingdom's PM candidate Boris Johnson plans tax cuts: Reports

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boris-johnson-wins-brexit-case-hounding-his-leadership-bid-225320">Boris Johnson</a>, the leading candidate to succeed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/theresa-may-quits-as-party-leader-starting-succession-race-225177">Theresa May</a> as Britain's next prime minister, said he would withhold a previously agreed 39 billion pound ($50 billion) Brexit payment until the European Union gives Britain better exit terms.

The EU has repeatedly said it will not reopen discussion of the Brexit transition deal it reached with May last year, which British lawmakers have rejected three times, prompting May to announce her resignation earlier this month.

May stepped down as leader of the governing Conservatives on Friday.

Johnson, a former foreign secretary in May's cabinet, is popular with ordinary Conservative Party members, who will decide between the two candidates who come top in a series of votes by Conservative lawmakers over the coming weeks.

"I always thought it was extraordinary that we should agree to write that entire cheque before having a final deal. In getting a good deal, money is a great solvent and a great lubricant," Johnson told the Sunday Times.

Britain is due to leave the EU on October 31 if Parliament does not approve a deal - and the government does not ask the EU for another delay - there risks being major economic disruption from a disorderly departure.

Watch: Race to replace Theresa May, Who'll be next?

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The 39 billion pounds represents outstanding British liabilities to the EU, which would be paid over a number of years according to the withdrawal agreement negotiated by May.

Johnson also said border arrangements with Ireland should be settled only as part of a long-term agreement, rejecting a "backstop" which would avoid checks on Northern Ireland's border but which Conservative lawmakers fear is a backdoor way of requiring Britain to continue to follow EU rules after Brexit.

The EU has said guarantees to keep the border open between Ireland and Northern Ireland are an essential part of the transition agreement.

Separately, one of Johnson's rivals, environment minister Michael Gove, said he would scrap the value-added tax (VAT) levied on most goods and services and replace it with a lower US-style sales tax.

Gove told the Sunday Telegraph he wanted to use "the opportunity of life outside the EU to look to replace VAT with a lower, simpler sales tax, ensuring our business tax structure is the most competitive in the G20 and reducing marginal tax rates for the poorest families to reward work."

VAT is one of Britain's main taxes, which the government expects to raise 137 billion pounds this year.

Another leadership contender, Sajid Javid, said he was willing to pay Ireland hundreds of millions of pounds towards the cost of new border arrangements to facilitate a Brexit deal.

Boris Johnson, the leading candidate to succeed Theresa May as Britain's next prime minister, said he would withhold a previously agreed 39 billion pound ($50 billion) Brexit payment until the European Union gives Britain better exit terms.

Boris Johnson, the leading candidate to succeed Theresa May as Britain's next prime minister, said he would withhold a previously agreed 39 billion pound ($50 billion) Brexit payment until the European Union gives Britain better exit terms. The EU has repeatedly said it will not reopen discussion of the Brexit transition deal it reached with May last year, which British lawmakers have rejected three times, prompting May to announce her resignation earlier this month. May stepped down as leader of the governing Conservatives on Friday. Johnson, a former foreign secretary in May's cabinet, is popular with ordinary Conservative Party members, who will decide between the two candidates who come top in a series of votes by Conservative lawmakers over the coming weeks. "I always thought it was extraordinary that we should agree to write that entire cheque before having a final deal. In getting a good deal, money is a great solvent and a great lubricant," Johnson told the Sunday Times. Britain is due to leave the EU on October 31 if Parliament does not approve a deal - and the government does not ask the EU for another delay - there risks being major economic disruption from a disorderly departure. Watch: Race to replace Theresa May, Who'll be next? × The 39 billion pounds represents outstanding British liabilities to the EU, which would be paid over a number of years according to the withdrawal agreement negotiated by May. Johnson also said border arrangements with Ireland should be settled only as part of a long-term agreement, rejecting a "backstop" which would avoid checks on Northern Ireland's border but which Conservative lawmakers fear is a backdoor way of requiring Britain to continue to follow EU rules after Brexit. The EU has said guarantees to keep the border open between Ireland and Northern Ireland are an essential part of the transition agreement. Separately, one of Johnson's rivals, environment minister Michael Gove, said he would scrap the value-added tax (VAT) levied on most goods and services and replace it with a lower US-style sales tax. Gove told the Sunday Telegraph he wanted to use "the opportunity of life outside the EU to look to replace VAT with a lower, simpler sales tax, ensuring our business tax structure is the most competitive in the G20 and reducing marginal tax rates for the poorest families to reward work." VAT is one of Britain's main taxes, which the government expects to raise 137 billion pounds this year. Another leadership contender, Sajid Javid, said he was willing to pay Ireland hundreds of millions of pounds towards the cost of new border arrangements to facilitate a Brexit deal.

UK’s Boris Johnson threatens to withhold $50 billion Brexit payment

Former UK foreign minister Boris Johnson's bid to succeed Theresa May as prime minister received a big boost Friday when a London court quashed his summons to answer charges that he lied during the Brexit referendum campaign.

His lawyers claimed that the private prosecution was "politically motivated" and had no precedent in common law.

The two-judge High Court panel said it was persuaded by their case.

The ruling was issued after nearly four hours of hearings into whether Johnson knowingly misleads the nation while arguing in favour of Britain's split from the European Union during the 2016 referendum campaign.

Johnson was both a member of parliament and mayor of London in the run-up to the highly contentious vote.

His most famous claim was that Britain would no longer have to make weekly payments of £350 million ($445 million, 395 million euros) to Brussels.

The case against him argued that he had committed the criminal offence of misconduct in a public office by using his position to knowingly make a false claim.

A district judge at the lower Westminster Magistrates Court in London, after hearing the arguments, decided to summons Johnson to court.

The former minister successfully appealed to England's High Court to overturn the decision.

"We are quashing the decision of the district judge to issue the summonses," judge Michael Supperstone ruled.

The decision left Marcus Ball -- a 29-year-old businessman who crowdfunded to pay for the proceedings against one of Britain's most famous politicians -- bitterly disappointed and contemplating an appeal.

"We've just given the green light to every politician to lie to us about our money forever. That's a terrible idea that I refuse to accept," Ball told reporters outside the court in London.

"Mr Johnson MP, you do not have the right to lie to the public about how their money is being spent. Go on television and tell everybody what the truth is."

£350 million dispute

The £350 million membership price tag represented Britain's gross contribution to the 28-nation EU bloc.

But the net figure is much smaller because it also includes a budget rebate from Brussels as well as payments to Britain's public sector from EU coffers.

The official pro-Brexit campaign emblazoned the £350 million total on its red touring bus during the 2016 EU referendum.

The image became one of the lingering symbols of a campaign that left Britain as divided as it had been before the vote.

Johnson's lawyer Adrian Darbishire argued on Friday that the case was designed to stop Brexit from the start.

"This case, on the face of it, represents political origins... in an area of public life that has never been subject to a court of law," he argued.

"Any form of political motivation is anathema to criminal proceedings."

The two-judge panel overturned the summons.

"It was the conclusion of the court that we were persuaded by Mr Darbishire," said judge Anne Rafferty.

"This quashes the summons," she said on revealing their ruling.

Johnson's campaign

May stepped down as the Conservative Party's leader on Friday and formally triggered the race for a successor -- currently being contested by Johnson and 10 other MPs -- but will remain, prime minister, until a new leader is chosen.

The entire process is expected to be over by the end of next month.

Johnson issued no immediate comment after the ruling and has said little about the case.

But he won support from other Brexit-backing ministers who are rivals for the premiership.

"Very glad to see the court case against Boris Johnson thrown out," interior minister Sajid Javid wrote on Twitter.

Johnson's campaign is built on the promise of getting out of the EU -- with or without a deal -- when the twice-delayed Brexit deadline arrived on October 31.

The pitch is popular among more right-wing rank-and-file Conservatives across the country who will pick the winner from two finalists selected by MPs.

Former UK foreign minister Boris Johnson's bid to succeed Theresa May as prime minister received a big boost Friday when a London court quashed his summons to answer charges that he lied during the Brexit referendum campaign.

Former UK foreign minister Boris Johnson's bid to succeed Theresa May as prime minister received a big boost Friday when a London court quashed his summons to answer charges that he lied during the Brexit referendum campaign. His lawyers claimed that the private prosecution was "politically motivated" and had no precedent in common law. The two-judge High Court panel said it was persuaded by their case. The ruling was issued after nearly four hours of hearings into whether Johnson knowingly misleads the nation while arguing in favour of Britain's split from the European Union during the 2016 referendum campaign. Johnson was both a member of parliament and mayor of London in the run-up to the highly contentious vote. His most famous claim was that Britain would no longer have to make weekly payments of £350 million ($445 million, 395 million euros) to Brussels. The case against him argued that he had committed the criminal offence of misconduct in a public office by using his position to knowingly make a false claim. A district judge at the lower Westminster Magistrates Court in London, after hearing the arguments, decided to summons Johnson to court. The former minister successfully appealed to England's High Court to overturn the decision. "We are quashing the decision of the district judge to issue the summonses," judge Michael Supperstone ruled. The decision left Marcus Ball -- a 29-year-old businessman who crowdfunded to pay for the proceedings against one of Britain's most famous politicians -- bitterly disappointed and contemplating an appeal. "We've just given the green light to every politician to lie to us about our money forever. That's a terrible idea that I refuse to accept," Ball told reporters outside the court in London. "Mr Johnson MP, you do not have the right to lie to the public about how their money is being spent. Go on television and tell everybody what the truth is." £350 million dispute The £350 million membership price tag represented Britain's gross contribution to the 28-nation EU bloc. But the net figure is much smaller because it also includes a budget rebate from Brussels as well as payments to Britain's public sector from EU coffers. The official pro-Brexit campaign emblazoned the £350 million total on its red touring bus during the 2016 EU referendum. The image became one of the lingering symbols of a campaign that left Britain as divided as it had been before the vote. Johnson's lawyer Adrian Darbishire argued on Friday that the case was designed to stop Brexit from the start. "This case, on the face of it, represents political origins... in an area of public life that has never been subject to a court of law," he argued. "Any form of political motivation is anathema to criminal proceedings." The two-judge panel overturned the summons. "It was the conclusion of the court that we were persuaded by Mr Darbishire," said judge Anne Rafferty. "This quashes the summons," she said on revealing their ruling. Johnson's campaign May stepped down as the Conservative Party's leader on Friday and formally triggered the race for a successor -- currently being contested by Johnson and 10 other MPs -- but will remain, prime minister, until a new leader is chosen. The entire process is expected to be over by the end of next month. Johnson issued no immediate comment after the ruling and has said little about the case. But he won support from other Brexit-backing ministers who are rivals for the premiership. "Very glad to see the court case against Boris Johnson thrown out," interior minister Sajid Javid wrote on Twitter. Johnson's campaign is built on the promise of getting out of the EU -- with or without a deal -- when the twice-delayed Brexit deadline arrived on October 31. The pitch is popular among more right-wing rank-and-file Conservatives across the country who will pick the winner from two finalists selected by MPs.

Boris Johnson wins Brexit case hounding his leadership bid

Boris Johnson, the frontrunner to replace Prime Minister Theresa May, cannot win a general election without broadening his appeal to floating voters who instinctively distrust him, Conservative polling specialist Robert Hayward said on Wednesday.

Johnson, 54, a former London mayor and foreign minister, has been rallying support for his leadership bid among Conservative lawmakers and the wider party by saying he is the only candidate who can deliver Brexit and win a national election.

But Hayward, a Conservative member of parliament's upper chamber, told reporters that while the first part of his message - that he can deliver Britain's delayed departure from the European Union - is scoring well with voters, his lack of appeal among so-called middle England could lose him any election.

Referring to recent polls by Delta poll, Opinium and YouGov, Hayward said: "They basically show that a Tory &nbsp;PM or leader can't win without Brexiteers' votes but you can't win without this middle ground."

"It's all very well saying you'll get the Brexit vote but you need others. Therefore I half agree with Boris but he has to complete the sentence, which is that you can't do without the middle ground as well," he said, describing him as "classic Marmite" - a spread that people mostly either love or hate.

More than 10 would-be successors have entered the race to replace May, who announced she was stepping down after failing to deliver Brexit on time. The governing Conservative Party says the contest will be finished by the end of July.&nbsp;

Hayward said Johnson had to win over so-called floating voters, people who do not have strong opinions on either Brexit or remaining in the EU but do want good government, and that many of them were instinctively distrustful of the former mayor.

Foreign minister Jeremy Hunt, among the favourites to replace May, scored the highest among these voters, he said.

Asked whether Johnson could win over middle England, Hayward said: "He has a lot of work to do."

Boris Johnson, the frontrunner to replace Prime Minister Theresa May, cannot win a general election without broadening his appeal to floating voters who instinctively distrust him, Conservative polling specialist Robert Hayward said on Wednesday.

Boris Johnson, the frontrunner to replace Prime Minister Theresa May, cannot win a general election without broadening his appeal to floating voters who instinctively distrust him, Conservative polling specialist Robert Hayward said on Wednesday. Johnson, 54, a former London mayor and foreign minister, has been rallying support for his leadership bid among Conservative lawmakers and the wider party by saying he is the only candidate who can deliver Brexit and win a national election. But Hayward, a Conservative member of parliament's upper chamber, told reporters that while the first part of his message - that he can deliver Britain's delayed departure from the European Union - is scoring well with voters, his lack of appeal among so-called middle England could lose him any election. Referring to recent polls by Delta poll, Opinium and YouGov, Hayward said: "They basically show that a Tory PM or leader can't win without Brexiteers' votes but you can't win without this middle ground." "It's all very well saying you'll get the Brexit vote but you need others. Therefore I half agree with Boris but he has to complete the sentence, which is that you can't do without the middle ground as well," he said, describing him as "classic Marmite" - a spread that people mostly either love or hate. More than 10 would-be successors have entered the race to replace May, who announced she was stepping down after failing to deliver Brexit on time. The governing Conservative Party says the contest will be finished by the end of July. Hayward said Johnson had to win over so-called floating voters, people who do not have strong opinions on either Brexit or remaining in the EU but do want good government, and that many of them were instinctively distrustful of the former mayor. Foreign minister Jeremy Hunt, among the favourites to replace May, scored the highest among these voters, he said. Asked whether Johnson could win over middle England, Hayward said: "He has a lot of work to do."

Boris Johnson must broaden appeal to win any United Kingdom election: Pollster

Prime Minister Theresa May's successor should abandon her <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-promises-uk-pm-theresa-may-very-substantial-trade-deal-after-brexit-224218">Brexit deal</a> and commit to taking Britain out of the European Union by October 31, an influential pro-Brexit group of Conservative lawmakers said on Wednesday.

May steps down as Conservative leader on Friday and the first round of voting among the party's lawmakers to elect her successor will take place next week.

Several of the 11 candidates have said they will seek changes to her deal, despite the EU saying it will not reopen negotiations.

The European Research Group (ERG), whose opposition to May's deal helped defeat it three times in parliament, said Britain should not propose revising the agreement.

"The Withdrawal Agreement and the Political Declaration have failed absolutely. They are not coming back. The next leader of the Conservative Party needs to know that and act on that basis," ERG Deputy Chairman Steve Baker said.

In a paper titled "A clean managed Brexit" published on Wednesday, the group said the delay to Britain's departure had done severe damage to public trust and posed "an existential threat" to the Conservative Party.

"It must therefore be the unshakable policy of the government to leave the EU by 31 October 2019," it said.

Many of the leadership contenders, including frontrunner Boris Johnson, have said Britain must leave on October 31 with or without a deal, but others have warned more time may be needed to reach an agreement with the EU and that parliament, which opposes a 'no deal', would try and block it.

The ERG paper said leaving without a deal was not its desired outcome but Britain should be prepared to do so and it may be necessary to trade on World Trade Organization terms until a free trade agreement (FTA) could be reached with the EU.

During this time, Britain should offer bilateral cooperation in areas of mutual interest, it said.

"Commencement of negotiation of the EU-UK FTA should be sought as soon as possible after the appointment of a new British Prime Minister, well before the UK departs the EU on 31 October," the paper said.

The group added that the government should not have to pay the 39 billion pound ($49.60 billion) divorce bill if Britain leaves without a deal and could instead use much of that many to mitigate the impact of leaving without an agreement.

Prime Minister Theresa May's successor should abandon her Brexit deal and commit to taking Britain out of the European Union by October 31, an influential pro-Brexit group of Conservative lawmakers said on Wednesday.

Prime Minister Theresa May's successor should abandon her Brexit deal and commit to taking Britain out of the European Union by October 31, an influential pro-Brexit group of Conservative lawmakers said on Wednesday. May steps down as Conservative leader on Friday and the first round of voting among the party's lawmakers to elect her successor will take place next week. Several of the 11 candidates have said they will seek changes to her deal, despite the EU saying it will not reopen negotiations. The European Research Group (ERG), whose opposition to May's deal helped defeat it three times in parliament, said Britain should not propose revising the agreement. "The Withdrawal Agreement and the Political Declaration have failed absolutely. They are not coming back. The next leader of the Conservative Party needs to know that and act on that basis," ERG Deputy Chairman Steve Baker said. In a paper titled "A clean managed Brexit" published on Wednesday, the group said the delay to Britain's departure had done severe damage to public trust and posed "an existential threat" to the Conservative Party. "It must therefore be the unshakable policy of the government to leave the EU by 31 October 2019," it said. Many of the leadership contenders, including frontrunner Boris Johnson, have said Britain must leave on October 31 with or without a deal, but others have warned more time may be needed to reach an agreement with the EU and that parliament, which opposes a 'no deal', would try and block it. The ERG paper said leaving without a deal was not its desired outcome but Britain should be prepared to do so and it may be necessary to trade on World Trade Organization terms until a free trade agreement (FTA) could be reached with the EU. During this time, Britain should offer bilateral cooperation in areas of mutual interest, it said. "Commencement of negotiation of the EU-UK FTA should be sought as soon as possible after the appointment of a new British Prime Minister, well before the UK departs the EU on 31 October," the paper said. The group added that the government should not have to pay the 39 billion pound ($49.60 billion) divorce bill if Britain leaves without a deal and could instead use much of that many to mitigate the impact of leaving without an agreement.

May's successor must abandon her deal with European Union and leave on October 31: Pro-Brexit group

Candidates vying for Theresa May's job and what they said about Brexit

Boris Johnson, the frontrunner to be <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-boris-johnson-would-be-very-good-as-next-uk-prime-minister-223289">Britain's next prime minister</a>, promised on Monday to lead the country out of the European Union on October&nbsp;31 with or without an exit deal, launching his leadership bid in a campaign video.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/theresa-may-resigns-as-british-prime-minister-heres-where-it-all-went-wrong-221331">Prime Minister Theresa May is due to resign</a> on Friday having failed to deliver Brexit on schedule. She leaves behind her a divided nation and parliament with no consensus on the way ahead for the world`s fifth largest economy.

Johnson, a former foreign minister who resigned in protest at May's handling of Brexit, is the bookmakers'&nbsp;favourite to win a crowded contest and take over the running of the country at its most important strategic juncture in decades.&nbsp;

"If I get in we'll come out, deal or no deal, on October the 31st," he was seen telling a member of the public in a campaign video released on Twitter.

The launch coincided with the arrival in Britain of US President Donald Trump, who has thrown his weight behind Johnson by saying he would do a "very good job" as British leader.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Race to replace Theresa May; Who will be the next PM?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/race-to-replace-theresa-may-who-will-be-the-next-pm-221854/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The race to replace May has so far focused on candidates` approach to a no-deal exit from the EU - with a clear dividing line between those who would countenance leaving the bloc without a formal transition agreement, and those who say it would be too economically dangerous.

Leadership rival Jeremy Hunt, one of the staunchest opponents of no deal, told the BBC that it should only be used "in extremis" but that he believed he could negotiate a better deal before October&nbsp;31 - the country's current exit date.

CUT TAXES, GET MORE MONEY

Johnson is himself a divisive figure.&nbsp;

Having led the 2016 campaign to leave the EU he is feted by those who see him as a colourful straight-talker, prepared to speak truth to a political establishment that has betrayed swathes of the electorate.

But critics say the former Mayor of London, educated at the exclusive Eton College and Oxford University, is an opportunist member of the political elite seeking to get the top job at any cost. He is due to appear in court over claims he lied during the Brexit referendum campaign - something his lawyers have dismissed as a political stunt.

Monday`s video, featuring clips of Johnson talking to voters and a monologue delivered straight to camera, is his first real salvo in the leadership battle which so far has 13 contenders and could take two months to determine the winner.&nbsp;

In it, he is seen touching on issues known to be important to the 160,000 or so Conservative members who will have the final vote on Britain`s next leader, once the candidate list has been whittled down by Conservative lawmakers.

"Cut some taxes and you get more money in," he tells another member of the public, while also arguing for more investment in education, infrastructure and healthcare.

"Now is the time to unite our society, and unite our country. To build the infrastructure, to invest in education, to improve our environment, and to support our fantastic NHS (National Health Service)," he said.

"To lift everyone in our country, and of course, also to make sure that we support our wealth creators and the businesses that make that investment possible."

Boris Johnson, the frontrunner to be Britain's next prime minister, promised on Monday to lead the country out of the European Union on October 31 with or without an exit deal, launching his leadership bid in a campaign video.

Boris Johnson, the frontrunner to be Britain's next prime minister, promised on Monday to lead the country out of the European Union on October 31 with or without an exit deal, launching his leadership bid in a campaign video. Prime Minister Theresa May is due to resign on Friday having failed to deliver Brexit on schedule. She leaves behind her a divided nation and parliament with no consensus on the way ahead for the world`s fifth largest economy. Johnson, a former foreign minister who resigned in protest at May's handling of Brexit, is the bookmakers' favourite to win a crowded contest and take over the running of the country at its most important strategic juncture in decades. "If I get in we'll come out, deal or no deal, on October the 31st," he was seen telling a member of the public in a campaign video released on Twitter. The launch coincided with the arrival in Britain of US President Donald Trump, who has thrown his weight behind Johnson by saying he would do a "very good job" as British leader. Watch: Race to replace Theresa May; Who will be the next PM? The race to replace May has so far focused on candidates` approach to a no-deal exit from the EU - with a clear dividing line between those who would countenance leaving the bloc without a formal transition agreement, and those who say it would be too economically dangerous. Leadership rival Jeremy Hunt, one of the staunchest opponents of no deal, told the BBC that it should only be used "in extremis" but that he believed he could negotiate a better deal before October 31 - the country's current exit date. CUT TAXES, GET MORE MONEY Johnson is himself a divisive figure. Having led the 2016 campaign to leave the EU he is feted by those who see him as a colourful straight-talker, prepared to speak truth to a political establishment that has betrayed swathes of the electorate. But critics say the former Mayor of London, educated at the exclusive Eton College and Oxford University, is an opportunist member of the political elite seeking to get the top job at any cost. He is due to appear in court over claims he lied during the Brexit referendum campaign - something his lawyers have dismissed as a political stunt. Monday`s video, featuring clips of Johnson talking to voters and a monologue delivered straight to camera, is his first real salvo in the leadership battle which so far has 13 contenders and could take two months to determine the winner. In it, he is seen touching on issues known to be important to the 160,000 or so Conservative members who will have the final vote on Britain`s next leader, once the candidate list has been whittled down by Conservative lawmakers. "Cut some taxes and you get more money in," he tells another member of the public, while also arguing for more investment in education, infrastructure and healthcare. "Now is the time to unite our society, and unite our country. To build the infrastructure, to invest in education, to improve our environment, and to support our fantastic NHS (National Health Service)," he said. "To lift everyone in our country, and of course, also to make sure that we support our wealth creators and the businesses that make that investment possible."

Deal or no deal, we leave European Union on October 31: UK PM candidate Boris Johnson

US President Donald Trump threw his weight behind Boris Johnson's campaign to be Britain's next prime minister and urged all candidates to pledge to boost defence spending, in a striking intervention ahead of his state visit next week.

"I think Boris would do a very good job. I think he would be excellent," Trump told the Sun newspaper about the former foreign secretary and leading Brexit campaigner, who is a front runner to succeed Theresa May as head of the Conservative Party.

Trump arrives in Britain on Monday for a three-day state visit at the invitation of Queen Elizabeth before attending World War Two commemorations in France and visiting Ireland.

He told the Sun that other Conservative lawmakers had sought his endorsement - though not environment minister Michael Gove, who has criticised his stance on Iran.

Trump also praised foreign secretary Jeremy Hunt's pledge to increase British defence spending.

"Yup. Like him," Trump said when asked about Hunt. "The UK should be able to defend themselves. It's a great and very special place," he said, noting that higher British defence spending could boost exports of U.S. military equipment.

Trump praised Johnson on his last visit to Britain in July 2018, saying that he thought Johnson had the skills needed to be prime minister, shortly after Johnson resigned in protest at May's handling of Brexit.

After failing three times this year to get parliament to back her plan for leaving the European Union, May said last week that she would step down as Conservative Party leader on June 7 to open the way for a contest to succeed her.

Most of the frontrunners are expected to push for a cleaner break with the European Union.

Trump criticised Britain's handling of Brexit talks, telling the Sun that "the UK allowed the European Union to have all the cards", though he added that he still had respect for May.

The two leaders will meet at May's Downing Street residence in central London on Tuesday when talks will cover their differences over how to manage the security risks posed by Iran's nuclear programme and Chinese tech company Huawei.

Trump will also spend time with Queen Elizabeth and her heir, Prince Charles, but is not scheduled to meet younger royals including the queen's grandson Prince Harry and his new American wife Meghan Markle.

Asked about criticism from Markle during the 2016 election campaign, Trump denied having noticed it.

"I didn’t know that she was nasty," he said. But he wished her well in her new life as a princess. "I am sure she will do excellently," he told the Sun.

US President Donald Trump threw his weight behind Boris Johnson's campaign to be Britain's next prime minister and urged all candidates to pledge to boost defence spending, in a striking intervention ahead of his state visit next week.

US President Donald Trump threw his weight behind Boris Johnson's campaign to be Britain's next prime minister and urged all candidates to pledge to boost defence spending, in a striking intervention ahead of his state visit next week. "I think Boris would do a very good job. I think he would be excellent," Trump told the Sun newspaper about the former foreign secretary and leading Brexit campaigner, who is a front runner to succeed Theresa May as head of the Conservative Party. Trump arrives in Britain on Monday for a three-day state visit at the invitation of Queen Elizabeth before attending World War Two commemorations in France and visiting Ireland. He told the Sun that other Conservative lawmakers had sought his endorsement - though not environment minister Michael Gove, who has criticised his stance on Iran. Trump also praised foreign secretary Jeremy Hunt's pledge to increase British defence spending. "Yup. Like him," Trump said when asked about Hunt. "The UK should be able to defend themselves. It's a great and very special place," he said, noting that higher British defence spending could boost exports of U.S. military equipment. Trump praised Johnson on his last visit to Britain in July 2018, saying that he thought Johnson had the skills needed to be prime minister, shortly after Johnson resigned in protest at May's handling of Brexit. After failing three times this year to get parliament to back her plan for leaving the European Union, May said last week that she would step down as Conservative Party leader on June 7 to open the way for a contest to succeed her. Most of the frontrunners are expected to push for a cleaner break with the European Union. Trump criticised Britain's handling of Brexit talks, telling the Sun that "the UK allowed the European Union to have all the cards", though he added that he still had respect for May. The two leaders will meet at May's Downing Street residence in central London on Tuesday when talks will cover their differences over how to manage the security risks posed by Iran's nuclear programme and Chinese tech company Huawei. Trump will also spend time with Queen Elizabeth and her heir, Prince Charles, but is not scheduled to meet younger royals including the queen's grandson Prince Harry and his new American wife Meghan Markle. Asked about criticism from Markle during the 2016 election campaign, Trump denied having noticed it. "I didn’t know that she was nasty," he said. But he wished her well in her new life as a princess. "I am sure she will do excellently," he told the Sun.

Trump says Boris Johnson would be 'very good' as next UK prime minister

Boris Johnson, the frontrunner to become Britain's next prime minister, must attend court over allegations that he knowingly lied during campaigning for the Brexit referendum, a judge announced Wednesday.

Johnson, the former foreign secretary, will be summoned to appear before a London court to face allegations of misconduct in public office, judge Margot Coleman said in a written decision without specifying the date. The private prosecution is being brought over the 2016 claim that Britain sends GBP 350 million ($440 million, 400 million euros) a week to the European Union.

The decision follows a hearing last week at Westminster Magistrates Court in London, during which lawyers for businessman Marcus Ball, who crowd-funded the bid, lodged an application to summon Johnson.&nbsp;

"The allegations which have been made are unproven accusations and I do not make any findings of fact. Having considered all the relevant factors I am satisfied that this is a proper case to issue the summons as requested for the three offences as drafted. This means the proposed defendant will be required to attend this court for a preliminary hearing, and the case will then be sent to the crown court for trial. The charges can only be dealt with in the crown court," Coleman said.

Johnson, a former London mayor, is running to replace Theresa May as leader of the governing Conservative Party, and therefore prime minister. Johnson was not present at last week's hearing, but his lawyer Adrian Darbishire said the pro-Brexit figurehead staunchly denied acting in an improper or dishonest manner. The maximum penalty for misconduct in public office is life imprisonment.

Boris Johnson, the frontrunner to become Britain's next prime minister, must attend court over allegations that he knowingly lied during campaigning for the Brexit referendum, a judge announced Wednesday.

Boris Johnson, the frontrunner to become Britain's next prime minister, must attend court over allegations that he knowingly lied during campaigning for the Brexit referendum, a judge announced Wednesday. Johnson, the former foreign secretary, will be summoned to appear before a London court to face allegations of misconduct in public office, judge Margot Coleman said in a written decision without specifying the date. The private prosecution is being brought over the 2016 claim that Britain sends GBP 350 million ($440 million, 400 million euros) a week to the European Union. The decision follows a hearing last week at Westminster Magistrates Court in London, during which lawyers for businessman Marcus Ball, who crowd-funded the bid, lodged an application to summon Johnson. "The allegations which have been made are unproven accusations and I do not make any findings of fact. Having considered all the relevant factors I am satisfied that this is a proper case to issue the summons as requested for the three offences as drafted. This means the proposed defendant will be required to attend this court for a preliminary hearing, and the case will then be sent to the crown court for trial. The charges can only be dealt with in the crown court," Coleman said. Johnson, a former London mayor, is running to replace Theresa May as leader of the governing Conservative Party, and therefore prime minister. Johnson was not present at last week's hearing, but his lawyer Adrian Darbishire said the pro-Brexit figurehead staunchly denied acting in an improper or dishonest manner. The maximum penalty for misconduct in public office is life imprisonment.

British PM race top horse Boris Johnson faces court hearing for Brexit 'lies'

Theresa May will resign on June 7 and set the timetable to elect a new Conservative leader. Watch the full video to know more.

Will Boris Johnson be the next UK PM?

The race to become Britain's next premier opened in earnest Saturday with an array of hopefuls promising to succeed where <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-pm-theresa-may-annouces-resignation-over-brexit-deal-221263">Theresa May failed</a> and finally pull the divided country out of the EU.

But European leaders insisted they had made their final offer after months of acrimonious talks that produced an unpopular compromise for which May ended up paying with her job.

May is bowing out with her legacy in tatters and the country in agony over what to do about the voters' decision in 2016 to abandon the European integration project after nearly 50 years.

The markets view the risk of Britain crashing out of the EU bloc when the twice-delayed departure date arrives on October 31 as uncomfortably high.

Their main concern is that some of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/race-to-replace-theresa-may-leaves-brexit-in-limbo-221489">current frontrunners</a> to head May's Conservative Party say they will get Brexit done at any cost.

"We will leave the EU on October 31, deal or no deal," former foreign minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-boris-johnson-lied-in-brexit-campaign-court-hears-221247">Boris Johnson</a> said Friday in Switzerland.

Johnson's main challenges will come from former Brexit secretary Dominic Raab -- viewed as an even more committed eurosceptic -- and Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt.

Both declared their candidacies in the Sunday papers.

Raab wrote in The Mail on Sunday that "I would prefer that we leave with a deal".

But "we will not be taken seriously in Brussels unless we are clear that we will walk away on World Trade Organisation (WTO) terms if the EU doesn't budge," Raab stressed.

Hunt had campaigned against Brexit in 2016 but has since reversed his stance.

"What matters is whether you believe in Brexit, not how you voted in 2016," he told The Sunday Times.

"We can never take no-deal off the table but the best way of avoiding it is to make sure you have someone who is capable of negotiating a deal," Britain's top diplomat said.

'Enthusiastic about Brexit'

Brexit-backing Environment Secretary Michael Gove is also expected to throw his hat in the ring in a BBC interview to be aired on Sunday evening.

The Sunday Times said Grove will argue that he has "a better track record" and is more "capable" than the other leading contenders for May's post.

The contest is being held against the backdrop of European Parliament elections that the new Brexit Party of the anti-EU populist Nigel Farage is expected to win with about a third of the vote.

Polls indicate that the Conservatives will be punished for their bickering over Brexit and could finish as low as fifth -- their worst result in a national election.

The candidates are also mindful of a party revolt over May's fateful decision to court the pro-EU opposition with the promise of a second Brexit referendum.

The concession was designed to help ram her withdrawal agreement through parliament on the fourth attempt.

But it won her no converts and sparked a party coup attempt that forced May to walk away before she was pushed out.

This prompted more EU-friendly hopefuls such as Work and Pensions Secretary Amber Rudd to concede Saturday that they stood no chance and would not vie for the job.

"I am conscious the Conservative Party wants someone who they believe is very enthusiastic about Brexit," Rudd told The Daily Telegraph.

Johnson is a popular figure viewed by many Conservatives as their best answer to Farage.

But a long political career that also saw him serve as London's mayor has made him enemies in parliament who will try to block his rise to the top.

Dark horses

Parliamentary party members will begin whittling down the field of contenders to a final two on June 10.

The finalists will then be put to a postal ballot of around 100,000 party members in July.

The field grew further on Saturday when Health Secretary Matt Hancock entered the race with a promise to take a more moderate approach.

Leaving the European Union without an agreement is "not an active policy choice that is available to the next prime minister," Hancock told Sky News.

Hancock is view as one of the dark horses who might make it through a crowded field of more than a dozen names.

International Development Secretary Rory Stewart is also positioning himself as a more consensus-seeking alternative to Johnson.

"It now seems that (Johnson) is coming out for a no-deal Brexit," Stewart told BBC radio.

"I think it would be a huge mistake. Damaging, unnecessary, and I think also dishonest."

Yet neither Hancock nor Stewart would say if they would push ahead with May's current agreement or try to secure added concessions from Brussels. 
&nbsp;

The race to become Britain's next premier opened in earnest Saturday with an array of hopefuls promising to succeed where Theresa May failed and finally pull the divided country out of the EU.

The race to become Britain's next premier opened in earnest Saturday with an array of hopefuls promising to succeed where Theresa May failed and finally pull the divided country out of the EU. But European leaders insisted they had made their final offer after months of acrimonious talks that produced an unpopular compromise for which May ended up paying with her job. May is bowing out with her legacy in tatters and the country in agony over what to do about the voters' decision in 2016 to abandon the European integration project after nearly 50 years. The markets view the risk of Britain crashing out of the EU bloc when the twice-delayed departure date arrives on October 31 as uncomfortably high. Their main concern is that some of the current frontrunners to head May's Conservative Party say they will get Brexit done at any cost. "We will leave the EU on October 31, deal or no deal," former foreign minister Boris Johnson said Friday in Switzerland. Johnson's main challenges will come from former Brexit secretary Dominic Raab -- viewed as an even more committed eurosceptic -- and Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt. Both declared their candidacies in the Sunday papers. Raab wrote in The Mail on Sunday that "I would prefer that we leave with a deal". But "we will not be taken seriously in Brussels unless we are clear that we will walk away on World Trade Organisation (WTO) terms if the EU doesn't budge," Raab stressed. Hunt had campaigned against Brexit in 2016 but has since reversed his stance. "What matters is whether you believe in Brexit, not how you voted in 2016," he told The Sunday Times. "We can never take no-deal off the table but the best way of avoiding it is to make sure you have someone who is capable of negotiating a deal," Britain's top diplomat said. 'Enthusiastic about Brexit' Brexit-backing Environment Secretary Michael Gove is also expected to throw his hat in the ring in a BBC interview to be aired on Sunday evening. The Sunday Times said Grove will argue that he has "a better track record" and is more "capable" than the other leading contenders for May's post. The contest is being held against the backdrop of European Parliament elections that the new Brexit Party of the anti-EU populist Nigel Farage is expected to win with about a third of the vote. Polls indicate that the Conservatives will be punished for their bickering over Brexit and could finish as low as fifth -- their worst result in a national election. The candidates are also mindful of a party revolt over May's fateful decision to court the pro-EU opposition with the promise of a second Brexit referendum. The concession was designed to help ram her withdrawal agreement through parliament on the fourth attempt. But it won her no converts and sparked a party coup attempt that forced May to walk away before she was pushed out. This prompted more EU-friendly hopefuls such as Work and Pensions Secretary Amber Rudd to concede Saturday that they stood no chance and would not vie for the job. "I am conscious the Conservative Party wants someone who they believe is very enthusiastic about Brexit," Rudd told The Daily Telegraph. Johnson is a popular figure viewed by many Conservatives as their best answer to Farage. But a long political career that also saw him serve as London's mayor has made him enemies in parliament who will try to block his rise to the top. Dark horses Parliamentary party members will begin whittling down the field of contenders to a final two on June 10. The finalists will then be put to a postal ballot of around 100,000 party members in July. The field grew further on Saturday when Health Secretary Matt Hancock entered the race with a promise to take a more moderate approach. Leaving the European Union without an agreement is "not an active policy choice that is available to the next prime minister," Hancock told Sky News. Hancock is view as one of the dark horses who might make it through a crowded field of more than a dozen names. International Development Secretary Rory Stewart is also positioning himself as a more consensus-seeking alternative to Johnson. "It now seems that (Johnson) is coming out for a no-deal Brexit," Stewart told BBC radio. "I think it would be a huge mistake. Damaging, unnecessary, and I think also dishonest." Yet neither Hancock nor Stewart would say if they would push ahead with May's current agreement or try to secure added concessions from Brussels.

UK leadership hopefuls vow to succeed where Theresa May failed on Brexit

Contenders to succeed Theresa May as Britain's prime minister prepared to launch their leadership campaigns on Saturday, leaving Brexit shrouded in uncertainty.

A<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-pm-theresa-may-annouces-resignation-over-brexit-deal-221263"> tearful May announced her resignation </a>on Friday, leaving the Brexit process for exiting the European Union in limbo and raising the risk of Britain crashing out of the bloc in a few months.

May's statement inevitably triggered the starting gun on a two-month contest to replace her.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/timeline-theresa-may-three-tumultuous-downing-street-years-221355">May will step down</a> as Conservative leader on June 7 but stay on as prime minister until party members have chosen her successor, which will happen by July 20.

Britain's EU departure date is currently fixed for October 31, although any new leader could ask for a further delay.

Conservative Party leadership contests are typically bloodthirsty affairs, with plot twists and betrayals.

Former foreign secretary Boris Johnson is the bookmakers' odds-on favourite, ahead of former Brexit secretary Dominic Raab.

Both have embraced the prospect of a no-deal Brexit.

But whoever takes over from May will like her face the same razor-thin majority in parliament, an EU with no intention of changing the divorce offer that MPs have rejected three times, and proponents both for and against Brexit who will never compromise.

Main opposition Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn said whoever wins the contest should call an immediate general election.

That too would be a risky move, with the newly-formed, single-issue Brexit Party set to triumph in the European Parliament elections when the results become clear on Monday.

Waiting in the wings

Raab as well as Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt and Environment Secretary Michael Gove all held off from throwing their hats in the ring on Friday, but are widely expected to stand.

The next prime minister of the UK, a country of more than 66 million people, will be decided by the 100,000 or so paid-up members of the Conservative Party.

After Johnson and Raab, the next most likely winners are Gove, Hunt and former Commons leader Andrea Leadsom, bookmakers say.

They are followed by International Development Secretary Rory Stewart, Defence Secretary Penny Mordaunt and Home Secretary Sajid Javid.

So far, only Johnson, Stewart and former pensions minister Esther McVey have declared their intention to stand.

"There's a lot of runners and riders in this particular race," Tony Travers, a politics professor at the London School of Economics University, told AFP.

Johnson "would certainly be the party membership's choice but not necessarily members of parliament", he added.

With the House of Commons' arithmetic unchanged, "the question is, could a new prime minister go back to the EU 27 and get a different deal that would be more attractive to parliament," Travers said.

A snap YouGov poll of 2,200 adults on Friday found 67 per cent thought May had made the right choice in standing down.

At the same time, May told her local party branch that she would stay on in parliament and remain an MP.

Labour MP Chris Bryant, calling for a second Brexit referendum, said the new prime minister could not go for a no-deal Brexit.

"If they opt for confrontation, they will suffer Mrs May's fate, but in a matter of months and weeks, not years," he said.

Deep regret

In an emotional address outside her Downing Street Office on Friday, May ended a dramatic three-year tenure of near-constant crisis over Brexit.

May, who took charge in the aftermath of the 2016 Brexit referendum, was forced out following a Conservative mutiny over her ill-fated strategy to end Britain's near five-decade membership of the EU.

"It is and will always remain a matter of deep regret to me that I have not been able to deliver Brexit," said May.

"I will shortly leave the job that it has been the honour of my life to hold.

"I do so with no ill-will, but with enormous and enduring gratitude to have had the opportunity to serve the country I love," she said, her voice breaking and close to tears.

May was hastily pushed into the humiliating spectacle after a meeting with the Conservative Party's committee chief in charge of leadership elections.

Her fourth bid to get MPs to agree to her EU divorce deal, this time with changes seeking to woo the opposition, went too far for many key cabinet members and her last remaining authority had all but evaporated.

With her resignation, the manner of Britain's withdrawal from the EU appears more ambiguous than ever.&nbsp;

Contenders to succeed Theresa May as Britain's prime minister prepared to launch their leadership campaigns on Saturday, leaving Brexit shrouded in uncertainty. A tearful May announced her resignation on Friday, leaving the Brexit process for exiting the European Union in limbo and raising the risk of Britain crashing out of the bloc in a few months.

Contenders to succeed Theresa May as Britain's prime minister prepared to launch their leadership campaigns on Saturday, leaving Brexit shrouded in uncertainty. A tearful May announced her resignation on Friday, leaving the Brexit process for exiting the European Union in limbo and raising the risk of Britain crashing out of the bloc in a few months. May's statement inevitably triggered the starting gun on a two-month contest to replace her. May will step down as Conservative leader on June 7 but stay on as prime minister until party members have chosen her successor, which will happen by July 20. Britain's EU departure date is currently fixed for October 31, although any new leader could ask for a further delay. Conservative Party leadership contests are typically bloodthirsty affairs, with plot twists and betrayals. Former foreign secretary Boris Johnson is the bookmakers' odds-on favourite, ahead of former Brexit secretary Dominic Raab. Both have embraced the prospect of a no-deal Brexit. But whoever takes over from May will like her face the same razor-thin majority in parliament, an EU with no intention of changing the divorce offer that MPs have rejected three times, and proponents both for and against Brexit who will never compromise. Main opposition Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn said whoever wins the contest should call an immediate general election. That too would be a risky move, with the newly-formed, single-issue Brexit Party set to triumph in the European Parliament elections when the results become clear on Monday. Waiting in the wings Raab as well as Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt and Environment Secretary Michael Gove all held off from throwing their hats in the ring on Friday, but are widely expected to stand. The next prime minister of the UK, a country of more than 66 million people, will be decided by the 100,000 or so paid-up members of the Conservative Party. After Johnson and Raab, the next most likely winners are Gove, Hunt and former Commons leader Andrea Leadsom, bookmakers say. They are followed by International Development Secretary Rory Stewart, Defence Secretary Penny Mordaunt and Home Secretary Sajid Javid. So far, only Johnson, Stewart and former pensions minister Esther McVey have declared their intention to stand. "There's a lot of runners and riders in this particular race," Tony Travers, a politics professor at the London School of Economics University, told AFP. Johnson "would certainly be the party membership's choice but not necessarily members of parliament", he added. With the House of Commons' arithmetic unchanged, "the question is, could a new prime minister go back to the EU 27 and get a different deal that would be more attractive to parliament," Travers said. A snap YouGov poll of 2,200 adults on Friday found 67 per cent thought May had made the right choice in standing down. At the same time, May told her local party branch that she would stay on in parliament and remain an MP. Labour MP Chris Bryant, calling for a second Brexit referendum, said the new prime minister could not go for a no-deal Brexit. "If they opt for confrontation, they will suffer Mrs May's fate, but in a matter of months and weeks, not years," he said. Deep regret In an emotional address outside her Downing Street Office on Friday, May ended a dramatic three-year tenure of near-constant crisis over Brexit. May, who took charge in the aftermath of the 2016 Brexit referendum, was forced out following a Conservative mutiny over her ill-fated strategy to end Britain's near five-decade membership of the EU. "It is and will always remain a matter of deep regret to me that I have not been able to deliver Brexit," said May. "I will shortly leave the job that it has been the honour of my life to hold. "I do so with no ill-will, but with enormous and enduring gratitude to have had the opportunity to serve the country I love," she said, her voice breaking and close to tears. May was hastily pushed into the humiliating spectacle after a meeting with the Conservative Party's committee chief in charge of leadership elections. Her fourth bid to get MPs to agree to her EU divorce deal, this time with changes seeking to woo the opposition, went too far for many key cabinet members and her last remaining authority had all but evaporated. With her resignation, the manner of Britain's withdrawal from the EU appears more ambiguous than ever.

Race to replace Theresa May leaves Brexit in limbo

Britain's former foreign secretary Boris Johnson knowingly lied during the 2016<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-prime-may-holds-out-promise-of-new-brexit-referendum-220484/amp"> Brexit referendum </a>campaign over the cost of the UK's EU membership, a court heard on Thursday in an application with potentially far-reaching implications.

A private prosecution bid against Johnson accused him of misconduct in public office over the claim that Britain sends $440 million a week to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/main-european-union-parties-adopt-climate-change-as-rallying-cry-221214">European Union</a>.

In a hearing at Westminster Magistrates Court in London, lawyers for businessman Marcus Ball, who crowdfunded for the bid, lodged an application to summons Johnson.&nbsp;

After considering the arguments, judge Margot Coleman said she would issue her decision on Wednesday.

Johnson was not present, but his lawyer Adrian Darbishire said the former London mayor and pro-Brexit figurehead -- who is now bidding to replace Prime Minister Theresa May -- staunchly denied any wrongdoing.&nbsp;

Ball's lawyer Lewis Power argued that Johnson knew the £350-million-a-week figure was wrong, but he "repeatedly misrepresented the amount the UK sends to Europe."&nbsp;

Johnson's conduct "was both irresponsible and dishonest. It was, we say, criminal.&nbsp;

"Democracy demands responsible and honest leadership from those in public office. When politicians lie, democracy dies," Lewis said.

In response, Johnson's lawyer, Darbishire, "absolutely denied" that his client had "acted in an improper or dishonest manner at any time," suggesting that the case was politically motivated.&nbsp;

Britain's former foreign secretary Boris Johnson knowingly lied during the 2016 Brexit referendum campaign over the cost of the UK's EU membership, a court heard on Thursday in an application with potentially far-reaching implications.

Britain's former foreign secretary Boris Johnson knowingly lied during the 2016 Brexit referendum campaign over the cost of the UK's EU membership, a court heard on Thursday in an application with potentially far-reaching implications. A private prosecution bid against Johnson accused him of misconduct in public office over the claim that Britain sends $440 million a week to the European Union. In a hearing at Westminster Magistrates Court in London, lawyers for businessman Marcus Ball, who crowdfunded for the bid, lodged an application to summons Johnson. After considering the arguments, judge Margot Coleman said she would issue her decision on Wednesday. Johnson was not present, but his lawyer Adrian Darbishire said the former London mayor and pro-Brexit figurehead -- who is now bidding to replace Prime Minister Theresa May -- staunchly denied any wrongdoing. Ball's lawyer Lewis Power argued that Johnson knew the £350-million-a-week figure was wrong, but he "repeatedly misrepresented the amount the UK sends to Europe." Johnson's conduct "was both irresponsible and dishonest. It was, we say, criminal. "Democracy demands responsible and honest leadership from those in public office. When politicians lie, democracy dies," Lewis said. In response, Johnson's lawyer, Darbishire, "absolutely denied" that his client had "acted in an improper or dishonest manner at any time," suggesting that the case was politically motivated.

UK's Boris Johnson 'lied' in Brexit campaign, court hears

Britain's Boris Johnson confirmed Thursday he will seek to become prime minister when <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/talks-gone-as-far-as-they-can-jeremy-corbyn-writes-to-theresa-may-as-labour-party-pulls-plug-on-brexit-compromise-talks-219387">Theresa May quits</a>, reports said, as she promised to set out a departure timetable early next month.

"Of course I'm going to go for it," the former foreign minister, ex-mayor of London and leading Brexit campaigner told a business event in Manchester, northwest England, the BBC and Sky News reported.

The decision comes as little surprise as Johnson, one of Britain's most identifiable politicians known simply as "Boris", has long been known to covet the top job.

But it effectively fires the starting gun on a race that already has more than a dozen runners and riders -- even though there is no official vacancy.

May has promised to step down once the first stage of Britain's exit from the European Union is secured, but this has been put in doubt by repeated Brexit delays.

At a meeting of senior members of her Conservative party on Thursday, May resisted growing demands to set out a detailed plan for her departure right now.

But Graham Brady, the chairman of the 1922 Committee of Conservative MPs, said May would do this after a parliamentary vote in the week beginning June 3 on legislation to approve her EU divorce deal.

"We have agreed that she and I will meet following the second reading (first vote) of the bill to agree a timetable for the election of a new leader of the Conservative and Unionist Party," he said.

Many of May's ministers and senior lawmakers are already making moves for the leadership, holding photo opportunities and giving wide-ranging speeches that go well beyond their official briefs.

Johnson, who botched his chance to run against May when she took office after the 2016 referendum, has long been assumed to be a candidate but has recently kept out the limelight.

Known abroad for his gaffes and accused of misleading voters over Brexit, he is nonetheless loved by many ordinary members of the ruling Conservative party, who will have a say in their new leader.

Johnson quit as foreign minister last year over the government's Brexit strategy and has been an outspoken critic of the divorce deal May struck with Brussels last November.

The deal has been rejected three times by the House of Commons, forcing May to delay Brexit twice.

She announced this week she would put it to MPs for a fourth time in early June, in the form of a vote on the Withdrawal Agreement Bill.

May hopes the bill could be passed by July, allowing Britain to leave the EU at the end of that month, and is expected to step down at that point.

If the plan is rejected again next month, however, few expect her to hold on that long.

Britain's Boris Johnson confirmed Thursday he will seek to become prime minister when Theresa May quits, reports said, as she promised to set out a departure timetable early next month.

Britain's Boris Johnson confirmed Thursday he will seek to become prime minister when Theresa May quits, reports said, as she promised to set out a departure timetable early next month. "Of course I'm going to go for it," the former foreign minister, ex-mayor of London and leading Brexit campaigner told a business event in Manchester, northwest England, the BBC and Sky News reported. The decision comes as little surprise as Johnson, one of Britain's most identifiable politicians known simply as "Boris", has long been known to covet the top job. But it effectively fires the starting gun on a race that already has more than a dozen runners and riders -- even though there is no official vacancy. May has promised to step down once the first stage of Britain's exit from the European Union is secured, but this has been put in doubt by repeated Brexit delays. At a meeting of senior members of her Conservative party on Thursday, May resisted growing demands to set out a detailed plan for her departure right now. But Graham Brady, the chairman of the 1922 Committee of Conservative MPs, said May would do this after a parliamentary vote in the week beginning June 3 on legislation to approve her EU divorce deal. "We have agreed that she and I will meet following the second reading (first vote) of the bill to agree a timetable for the election of a new leader of the Conservative and Unionist Party," he said. Many of May's ministers and senior lawmakers are already making moves for the leadership, holding photo opportunities and giving wide-ranging speeches that go well beyond their official briefs. Johnson, who botched his chance to run against May when she took office after the 2016 referendum, has long been assumed to be a candidate but has recently kept out the limelight. Known abroad for his gaffes and accused of misleading voters over Brexit, he is nonetheless loved by many ordinary members of the ruling Conservative party, who will have a say in their new leader. Johnson quit as foreign minister last year over the government's Brexit strategy and has been an outspoken critic of the divorce deal May struck with Brussels last November. The deal has been rejected three times by the House of Commons, forcing May to delay Brexit twice. She announced this week she would put it to MPs for a fourth time in early June, in the form of a vote on the Withdrawal Agreement Bill. May hopes the bill could be passed by July, allowing Britain to leave the EU at the end of that month, and is expected to step down at that point. If the plan is rejected again next month, however, few expect her to hold on that long.

Boris Johnson says will stand as UK PM agrees to set exit date

Rachel Johnson, the sister of leading Brexit proponent Boris Johnson, on Tuesday became a candidate for new pro-EU party Change UK -- the latest high-profile sibling split over the contentious issue.

The former Financial Times and Daily Telegraph journalist, 53, joined the new party formed by 11 cross-party europhile MPs, to run in the upcoming European Parliament elections.

She is the younger sister of former foreign secretary Boris, who is favourite to take over as prime minister after current leader Theresa May steps down once the first phase of Brexit is completed.

"I'm sure that Boris understands why this is not a vote against Boris," she said, telling London's Evening Standard newspaper she felt "impelled to stand up and be counted for what I believe in".

The ardent European Union supporter once said she would "walk down Whitehall in my birthday suit to stop Brexit."

She now writes a weekly column in The Mail on Sunday, and was unveiled on a roster of candidates for Change UK at an event in Bristol in southwest England.

Boris Johnson was a key figure helping swing the 2016 referendum vote in favour of Leave.

He has criticised May's withdrawal deal struck with the EU for keeping Britain too closely tied to the bloc, putting him at odds with other members of his family.

His brother Jo, also a Conservative politician, quit as a minister in November, believing May's deal would sever too many ties with the EU.

He has since backed calls for a second referendum on the issue.

The power of Brexit to cut across family bonds -- even if on the same side -- was also evident earlier this month.

Annunziata Rees-Mogg, brother of influential Conservative Brexiteer Jacob Rees-Mogg, announced she was leaving the party to stand as a candidate for Nigel Farage's new Brexit Party.

Her brother tweeted that "Annunziata would be a brilliant prime minister but I hope as a Tory".

It was revealed she has been a member of the Conservatives since the age of five.

Rachel Johnson, the sister of leading Brexit proponent Boris Johnson, on Tuesday became a candidate for new pro-EU party Change UK -- the latest high-profile sibling split over the contentious issue.

Rachel Johnson, the sister of leading Brexit proponent Boris Johnson, on Tuesday became a candidate for new pro-EU party Change UK -- the latest high-profile sibling split over the contentious issue. The former Financial Times and Daily Telegraph journalist, 53, joined the new party formed by 11 cross-party europhile MPs, to run in the upcoming European Parliament elections. She is the younger sister of former foreign secretary Boris, who is favourite to take over as prime minister after current leader Theresa May steps down once the first phase of Brexit is completed. "I'm sure that Boris understands why this is not a vote against Boris," she said, telling London's Evening Standard newspaper she felt "impelled to stand up and be counted for what I believe in". The ardent European Union supporter once said she would "walk down Whitehall in my birthday suit to stop Brexit." She now writes a weekly column in The Mail on Sunday, and was unveiled on a roster of candidates for Change UK at an event in Bristol in southwest England. Boris Johnson was a key figure helping swing the 2016 referendum vote in favour of Leave. He has criticised May's withdrawal deal struck with the EU for keeping Britain too closely tied to the bloc, putting him at odds with other members of his family. His brother Jo, also a Conservative politician, quit as a minister in November, believing May's deal would sever too many ties with the EU. He has since backed calls for a second referendum on the issue. The power of Brexit to cut across family bonds -- even if on the same side -- was also evident earlier this month. Annunziata Rees-Mogg, brother of influential Conservative Brexiteer Jacob Rees-Mogg, announced she was leaving the party to stand as a candidate for Nigel Farage's new Brexit Party. Her brother tweeted that "Annunziata would be a brilliant prime minister but I hope as a Tory". It was revealed she has been a member of the Conservatives since the age of five.

Sibling rivalry behind Britain's Brexit politics

Britain's Brexit champion Boris Johnson on Saturday hit out at mounting calls for a second referendum on European Union membership predicting it would arouse widespread "anger".

The former foreign minister turned tormentor of Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May also mocked the "bastards" who run the EU as he attacked the bloc.

Questioned at a conference in New Delhi about pressure for a repeat of the 2016 referendum in Britain, Johnson said "I don't think that's possible."

"I think that the anger in the population would be so intense and the tedium -- people would be driven absolutely round the bend by the idea of having to vote on this thing again."

"It was a very acrimonious, very divisive campaign" in 2016, he said, predicting any second vote would produce the same result.

Johnson quit as foreign minister in May's right-wing government last year in protest at her proposed departure deal with the EU -- which would keep Britain temporarily in the EU customs union as a "backstop" until problems with the Irish border are settled.

Parliament has since rejected the deal and May is battling political turmoil ahead of the scheduled March 29 departure date.

Brexit not 'xenophobic'

"We need to get this Brexit done properly and our prime minister now needs to punch a hole through that backstop and it has got to be a hole that is big enough to fit the entire United Kingdom," Johnson told the India Today media group conference.

"Once she does that we are free. We are at the races. I am hoping she will do it," he declared of the intense talks between the government and Brussels.

Johnson also told the Indian audience that Brexit was misunderstood by those who say it is an "xenophobic, nationalistic and reactionary phenomenon."

"My objection to the EU was not that it was run by foreigners. The problem is we don't really know who is running it," Johnson said, mocking the five presidents of the EU commission, council of ministers, parliament and other bodies.

"I couldn't tell you who they are, or what they do or how they came by their jobs or how they may be removed from office.

"I have no idea how to kick those particular bastards out -- I'm not saying they are bastards. But millions and millions of people in the UK have no idea how the system works. It's completely cut off to them."

Johnson said those who predict disaster for Britain outside the bloc are "chicken lickens" but said there were still "many in the upper reaches of the UK government."

"They are like the people who said that Columbus would sail off the edge of the world."

"There is a very big struggle going on over what Brexit really means," he said.

"The treasury and the whole system, they are really too nervous of taking the leap," he added. Without control of tariffs and regulation, "sincerely you might as well be in" the EU, he said.

"Unless you have the freedom then stay in. I don't think the UK is going to stay in or that the UK should stay in," he added however.

Britain's Brexit champion Boris Johnson on Saturday hit out at mounting calls for a second referendum on European Union membership predicting it would arouse widespread "anger".

Britain's Brexit champion Boris Johnson on Saturday hit out at mounting calls for a second referendum on European Union membership predicting it would arouse widespread "anger". The former foreign minister turned tormentor of Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May also mocked the "bastards" who run the EU as he attacked the bloc. Questioned at a conference in New Delhi about pressure for a repeat of the 2016 referendum in Britain, Johnson said "I don't think that's possible." "I think that the anger in the population would be so intense and the tedium -- people would be driven absolutely round the bend by the idea of having to vote on this thing again." "It was a very acrimonious, very divisive campaign" in 2016, he said, predicting any second vote would produce the same result. Johnson quit as foreign minister in May's right-wing government last year in protest at her proposed departure deal with the EU -- which would keep Britain temporarily in the EU customs union as a "backstop" until problems with the Irish border are settled. Parliament has since rejected the deal and May is battling political turmoil ahead of the scheduled March 29 departure date. Brexit not 'xenophobic' "We need to get this Brexit done properly and our prime minister now needs to punch a hole through that backstop and it has got to be a hole that is big enough to fit the entire United Kingdom," Johnson told the India Today media group conference. "Once she does that we are free. We are at the races. I am hoping she will do it," he declared of the intense talks between the government and Brussels. Johnson also told the Indian audience that Brexit was misunderstood by those who say it is an "xenophobic, nationalistic and reactionary phenomenon." "My objection to the EU was not that it was run by foreigners. The problem is we don't really know who is running it," Johnson said, mocking the five presidents of the EU commission, council of ministers, parliament and other bodies. "I couldn't tell you who they are, or what they do or how they came by their jobs or how they may be removed from office. "I have no idea how to kick those particular bastards out -- I'm not saying they are bastards. But millions and millions of people in the UK have no idea how the system works. It's completely cut off to them." Johnson said those who predict disaster for Britain outside the bloc are "chicken lickens" but said there were still "many in the upper reaches of the UK government." "They are like the people who said that Columbus would sail off the edge of the world." "There is a very big struggle going on over what Brexit really means," he said. "The treasury and the whole system, they are really too nervous of taking the leap," he added. Without control of tariffs and regulation, "sincerely you might as well be in" the EU, he said. "Unless you have the freedom then stay in. I don't think the UK is going to stay in or that the UK should stay in," he added however.

Boris Johnson says new European Union vote would unleash British 'anger'

Who might be Britain's next prime minister if May goes?

British Prime Minister Theresa May and her main rival Boris Johnson battled Tuesday to woo their Conservative party members, as the European Union raised the pressure on London to offer compromises to reach a Brexit deal.

Johnson will make his long-anticipated speech to the party's annual conference in Birmingham, central England, where he is expected to repeat his attacks on May's strategy for leaving the EU.

Aides to the charismatic former foreign minister said he would also cover a wide range of domestic issues, reinforcing speculation that he is making a pitch for May's job.

In broadcast interviews on Tuesday, the prime minister acknowledged Johnson's speech would be a "lively" event, and called for her party to "come together".

But she ensured she dominated the headlines by announcing a new immigration policy -- something that was not expected until Wednesday, and will address many Tory members' concerns.

Free movement of EU workers was a key issue in the 2016 vote for Brexit, and May confirmed that Europeans would be treated the same as non-EU citizens in future.

Her public battle with Johnson comes just weeks before May must return to Brussels in a bid to break the deadlock in Brexit negotiations and reach a deal.

The prime minister hinted at a possible compromise on how to keep the land border with Ireland open after Brexit, a key sticking point in the EU talks, on which London is due to publish new plans shortly.

EU Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker meanwhile warned that London's threat to walk away from the negotiations without a deal would have consequences.

"We want a deal. Those who think no deal would be the better solution are not aware of the difficulties such a scenario would imply," he told the European Parliament in Strasbourg.

Alternative plan

Johnson was a leading campaigner for Brexit in the referendum. Even after being appointed foreign minister he continually challenged May's EU strategy.

He quit in July in protest at her plan for Britain to follow EU rules in goods after Brexit, which she says will protect cross-border trade but he argues would keep London tied to the bloc well into the future.

The EU has also rejected the plan, saying it undermines the bloc's cherished single market.

Numerous eurosceptic Conservative MPs have already drawn big crowds in Birmingham as they offer their own idea for a looser trade arrangement with the EU.

Johnson endorses the same alternative proposal, but the maverick former London mayor has particular star power, and his lunchtime address in a 1,500-capacity hall is expected to be packed.

"He's not a details guy, but he's a guy who has vision. And he's a winner," said Ian Burgess, a delegate in his 60s from Somerset in western England.

Think he's a clown

Johnson is known for his wit and confrontational style, and before the event he posed for a press photograph in a field of long grass.

It clearly mocked May, who once said the naughtiest thing she had done was run through a field of wheat.

But Johnson's recent comments about her Brexit plan, calling it "deranged" and saying it strapped a suicide vest to the British constitution, have angered many fellow MPs.

Several former colleagues used the conference to make jokes at his expense, while finance minister Philip Hammond said his alternative Brexit plan was "fantasy".

Even former Brexit minister David Davis, a fellow eurosceptic who describes Johnson as a "great mate", said many of his ideas "are good headlines but not necessarily good policies".

Among the delegates, there is also unease about Johnson's public disagreements with May.

Amandeep Garcha, a 21-year-old student activist from Derby, backs Johnson's Brexit position, but said: "When you're high up in the ranks, you should deal with these things privately."

Mike Kay, a 34-year-old delegate from Manchester in northwest England, added: "He has a kind of charisma that so few others do. But he is very divisive, that's a problem.

"A large section of the country thinks he is a clown."

British Prime Minister Theresa May and her main rival Boris Johnson battled Tuesday to woo their Conservative party members, as the European Union raised the pressure on London to offer compromises to reach a Brexit deal.

British Prime Minister Theresa May and her main rival Boris Johnson battled Tuesday to woo their Conservative party members, as the European Union raised the pressure on London to offer compromises to reach a Brexit deal. Johnson will make his long-anticipated speech to the party's annual conference in Birmingham, central England, where he is expected to repeat his attacks on May's strategy for leaving the EU. Aides to the charismatic former foreign minister said he would also cover a wide range of domestic issues, reinforcing speculation that he is making a pitch for May's job. In broadcast interviews on Tuesday, the prime minister acknowledged Johnson's speech would be a "lively" event, and called for her party to "come together". But she ensured she dominated the headlines by announcing a new immigration policy -- something that was not expected until Wednesday, and will address many Tory members' concerns. Free movement of EU workers was a key issue in the 2016 vote for Brexit, and May confirmed that Europeans would be treated the same as non-EU citizens in future. Her public battle with Johnson comes just weeks before May must return to Brussels in a bid to break the deadlock in Brexit negotiations and reach a deal. The prime minister hinted at a possible compromise on how to keep the land border with Ireland open after Brexit, a key sticking point in the EU talks, on which London is due to publish new plans shortly. EU Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker meanwhile warned that London's threat to walk away from the negotiations without a deal would have consequences. "We want a deal. Those who think no deal would be the better solution are not aware of the difficulties such a scenario would imply," he told the European Parliament in Strasbourg. Alternative plan Johnson was a leading campaigner for Brexit in the referendum. Even after being appointed foreign minister he continually challenged May's EU strategy. He quit in July in protest at her plan for Britain to follow EU rules in goods after Brexit, which she says will protect cross-border trade but he argues would keep London tied to the bloc well into the future. The EU has also rejected the plan, saying it undermines the bloc's cherished single market. Numerous eurosceptic Conservative MPs have already drawn big crowds in Birmingham as they offer their own idea for a looser trade arrangement with the EU. Johnson endorses the same alternative proposal, but the maverick former London mayor has particular star power, and his lunchtime address in a 1,500-capacity hall is expected to be packed. "He's not a details guy, but he's a guy who has vision. And he's a winner," said Ian Burgess, a delegate in his 60s from Somerset in western England. Think he's a clown Johnson is known for his wit and confrontational style, and before the event he posed for a press photograph in a field of long grass. It clearly mocked May, who once said the naughtiest thing she had done was run through a field of wheat. But Johnson's recent comments about her Brexit plan, calling it "deranged" and saying it strapped a suicide vest to the British constitution, have angered many fellow MPs. Several former colleagues used the conference to make jokes at his expense, while finance minister Philip Hammond said his alternative Brexit plan was "fantasy". Even former Brexit minister David Davis, a fellow eurosceptic who describes Johnson as a "great mate", said many of his ideas "are good headlines but not necessarily good policies". Among the delegates, there is also unease about Johnson's public disagreements with May. Amandeep Garcha, a 21-year-old student activist from Derby, backs Johnson's Brexit position, but said: "When you're high up in the ranks, you should deal with these things privately." Mike Kay, a 34-year-old delegate from Manchester in northwest England, added: "He has a kind of charisma that so few others do. But he is very divisive, that's a problem. "A large section of the country thinks he is a clown."

UK's May and Johnson battle it out as Brexit deadline looms

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-pakistan-helicopter-violates-indian-airspace-poonch-sector-jk-168534">J&amp;K: Pakistan helicopter violates Indian airspace in </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-pakistan-helicopter-violates-indian-airspace-poonch-sector-jk-168534">Poonch</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-pakistan-helicopter-violates-indian-airspace-poonch-sector-jk-168534"> sector</a>

A Pakistani chopper Sunday violated the airspace along the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir, the Army said. News agency PTI quoting Jammu-based Army PRO Lt Col Devender Anand said that the helicopter violated the airspace around 12:13 pm.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/industry/hyderabad-bound-jet-airways-flight-makes-emergency-landing-indore-airport-168533">Hyderabad-bound Jet flight makes </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/industry/hyderabad-bound-jet-airways-flight-makes-emergency-landing-indore-airport-168533">emergency</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/industry/hyderabad-bound-jet-airways-flight-makes-emergency-landing-indore-airport-168533"> landing at Indore airport</a>

A Hyderabad bound Jet Airways flight made an emergency landing at Indore airport after the crew encountered a technical glitch in the engine on Sunday, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/lets-come-together-may-makes-brexit-appeal-party-168544">'Let's come together,' UK PM Theresa May makes </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/lets-come-together-may-makes-brexit-appeal-party-168544">Brexit</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/lets-come-together-may-makes-brexit-appeal-party-168544"> appeal to </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/lets-come-together-may-makes-brexit-appeal-party-168544">party</a>

Prime Minister Theresa May called on her party on Sunday to unite behind her plan to leave the European Union, making a direct appeal to critics by saying their desire for a free trade deal was at the heart of her own Brexit proposals.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/rapper-kanye-west-changes-his-name-ye-168551">Rapper Kanye West changes his name to Ye</a>

Rapper Kanye West has announced that his new name is 'Ye'. The 41-year-old musician shared the news of his name change on Twitter and wrote, "the being formally known as Kanye West. I am YE."

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/fearing-debt-trap-pakistan-rethinks-chinese-silk-road-projects-168559">Fearing debt trap, Pakistan rethinks Chinese 'Silk Road' projects</a>

After lengthy delays, an $8.2 billion revamp of a colonial-era rail line snaking from the Arabian Sea to the foothills of the Hindu Kush has become a test of Pakistan's ability to rethink signature Chinese "Silk Road" projects due to debt concerns.

J&K: Pakistan helicopter violates Indian airspace in Poonch sector A Pakistani chopper Sunday violated the airspace along the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir, the Army said.

J&K: Pakistan helicopter violates Indian airspace in Poonch sector A Pakistani chopper Sunday violated the airspace along the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir, the Army said. News agency PTI quoting Jammu-based Army PRO Lt Col Devender Anand said that the helicopter violated the airspace around 12:13 pm. Hyderabad-bound Jet flight makes emergency landing at Indore airport A Hyderabad bound Jet Airways flight made an emergency landing at Indore airport after the crew encountered a technical glitch in the engine on Sunday, news agency ANI reported. 'Let's come together,' UK PM Theresa May makes Brexit appeal to party Prime Minister Theresa May called on her party on Sunday to unite behind her plan to leave the European Union, making a direct appeal to critics by saying their desire for a free trade deal was at the heart of her own Brexit proposals. Rapper Kanye West changes his name to Ye Rapper Kanye West has announced that his new name is 'Ye'. The 41-year-old musician shared the news of his name change on Twitter and wrote, "the being formally known as Kanye West. I am YE." Fearing debt trap, Pakistan rethinks Chinese 'Silk Road' projects After lengthy delays, an $8.2 billion revamp of a colonial-era rail line snaking from the Arabian Sea to the foothills of the Hindu Kush has become a test of Pakistan's ability to rethink signature Chinese "Silk Road" projects due to debt concerns.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Prime Minister Theresa May called on her party on Sunday to unite behind her plan to leave the European Union, making a direct appeal to critics by saying their desire for a free trade deal was at the heart of her own Brexit proposals.

At the start of what is set to be one of the Conservative Party's stormiest annual conferences, May's plans were once again attacked by two former ministers, with former foreign secretary, Boris Johnson, calling them "deranged".

Just six months before Britain is due to leave the EU in the country's biggest shift in foreign and trade policy in more than 40 years, the debate over how to leave the bloc is still raging in the centre-right Conservative Party, and even in the government.

May's already fragile leadership was put under further pressure this month when the EU rejected parts of the so-called Chequers plan. But she put a positive spin on those talks, saying she was ready to consider to the EU's concerns.

"My message to my party is let's come together and get the best deal for Britain," May told the BBC in the central English city of Birmingham.

"At the heart of the Chequers plan is a free trade deal, a free trade area and frictionless trade ... Chequers at the moment is the only plan on the table that delivers on the Brexit vote ... and also delivers for the people of Northern Ireland."

May has shown little sign of shifting away from her Chequers plan, named after her country residence where she hashed out an agreement on Brexit with her ministers in July, despite growing criticism that her proposals offer the worst of all worlds.

Johnson, who quit May's cabinet after Chequers was agreed, called her plans "deranged" and attacked the prime minister for not believing in Brexit.

"Unlike the prime minister I campaigned for Brexit," Johnson, the bookmakers' favourite to succeed May, told the Sunday Times newspaper.

"Unlike the prime minister I fought for this, I believe in it, I think it's the right thing for our country and I think that what is happening now is, alas, not what people were promised in 2016."

Davis, who like Johnson resigned in protest said her plan was "just wrong", but he also said he thought it was 80-90 percent likely that the government would strike an exit deal with the EU.

TESTY CONFERENCE

May's team hoped the party's conference would give her a platform to renew her pledge to help those people who are "just about managing", trying to pull the focus away from Brexit and on to a domestic agenda.

But her first announcement - for an additional levy on foreign home buyers - did little to reset the conversation, with Sunday dominated again with Brexit, a possible leadership campaign and the prospect of an early election.

Johnson's interview in the Sunday Times was seen by many in the party to be the start of a campaign to unseat May - something that angered some Conservatives who are critical of the former foreign minister.

May refused to be drawn on his comments, and did not refer to him by name in a lengthy interview with the BBC. But her response was sharp.

"I do believe in Brexit," she said.

"But crucially I believe in delivering Brexit in a way that respects the vote and delivers on the vote of the British people while also protecting our union, protecting jobs and ensuring that we make a success of Brexit for the future."And she did find some support.

Ruth Davidson, leader of the Scottish Conservatives, said she still believed May could still manage to win a deal with the EU, and her party chairman, Brandon Lewis, said he believed she could lead into the next election, due in 2022.

Davidson told Sky News that the EU summit in Salzburg had actually "slightly cleared the air actually, we know that officials are working very closely together."

"I think there is still a basis there for a deal to be done."

Prime Minister Theresa May called on her party on Sunday to unite behind her plan to leave the European Union, making a direct appeal to critics by saying their desire for a free trade deal was at the heart of her own Brexit proposals.

Prime Minister Theresa May called on her party on Sunday to unite behind her plan to leave the European Union, making a direct appeal to critics by saying their desire for a free trade deal was at the heart of her own Brexit proposals. At the start of what is set to be one of the Conservative Party's stormiest annual conferences, May's plans were once again attacked by two former ministers, with former foreign secretary, Boris Johnson, calling them "deranged". Just six months before Britain is due to leave the EU in the country's biggest shift in foreign and trade policy in more than 40 years, the debate over how to leave the bloc is still raging in the centre-right Conservative Party, and even in the government. May's already fragile leadership was put under further pressure this month when the EU rejected parts of the so-called Chequers plan. But she put a positive spin on those talks, saying she was ready to consider to the EU's concerns. "My message to my party is let's come together and get the best deal for Britain," May told the BBC in the central English city of Birmingham. "At the heart of the Chequers plan is a free trade deal, a free trade area and frictionless trade ... Chequers at the moment is the only plan on the table that delivers on the Brexit vote ... and also delivers for the people of Northern Ireland." May has shown little sign of shifting away from her Chequers plan, named after her country residence where she hashed out an agreement on Brexit with her ministers in July, despite growing criticism that her proposals offer the worst of all worlds. Johnson, who quit May's cabinet after Chequers was agreed, called her plans "deranged" and attacked the prime minister for not believing in Brexit. "Unlike the prime minister I campaigned for Brexit," Johnson, the bookmakers' favourite to succeed May, told the Sunday Times newspaper. "Unlike the prime minister I fought for this, I believe in it, I think it's the right thing for our country and I think that what is happening now is, alas, not what people were promised in 2016." Davis, who like Johnson resigned in protest said her plan was "just wrong", but he also said he thought it was 80-90 percent likely that the government would strike an exit deal with the EU. TESTY CONFERENCE May's team hoped the party's conference would give her a platform to renew her pledge to help those people who are "just about managing", trying to pull the focus away from Brexit and on to a domestic agenda. But her first announcement - for an additional levy on foreign home buyers - did little to reset the conversation, with Sunday dominated again with Brexit, a possible leadership campaign and the prospect of an early election. Johnson's interview in the Sunday Times was seen by many in the party to be the start of a campaign to unseat May - something that angered some Conservatives who are critical of the former foreign minister. May refused to be drawn on his comments, and did not refer to him by name in a lengthy interview with the BBC. But her response was sharp. "I do believe in Brexit," she said. "But crucially I believe in delivering Brexit in a way that respects the vote and delivers on the vote of the British people while also protecting our union, protecting jobs and ensuring that we make a success of Brexit for the future."And she did find some support. Ruth Davidson, leader of the Scottish Conservatives, said she still believed May could still manage to win a deal with the EU, and her party chairman, Brandon Lewis, said he believed she could lead into the next election, due in 2022. Davidson told Sky News that the EU summit in Salzburg had actually "slightly cleared the air actually, we know that officials are working very closely together." "I think there is still a basis there for a deal to be done."

'Let's come together,' UK PM Theresa May makes Brexit appeal to party

Britain's Boris Johnson on Friday unveiled his vision for Brexit as he urged Prime Minister Theresa May to pursue a "Super Canada" trade deal, sparking renewed infighting among ruling Conservatives ahead of their annual party conference.

The former foreign secretary, who resigned from the government in July over the issue, described May's current proposals for the future relationship with the EU as a "moral and intellectual humiliation".

Writing in the Daily Telegraph, Johnson outlined a six-point alternative plan, that would scrap a backstop agreement struck with the European Union last December on the contentious Irish border.

He argued that adopting technology and making customs checks away from the frontier would prevent a return to a hard border -- a sticking point in negotiations and a key factor in May's proposal.

The ardent Brexiteer called for Britain and the EU instead to negotiate a free trade agreement -- dubbed "Super Canada" -- mirroring the deal the bloc signed with Ottawa in 2016.

It removed the vast majority of customs duties on exports crossing the Atlantic.

He conceded that negotiating such an agreement, which would aim for mutual recognition of standards to keep goods moving and also include services, may require extending any Brexit transition period beyond 2020.&nbsp;

"This is the moment to change the course of the negotiations and (to) do justice to the ambitions and potential of Brexit," Johnson wrote in the 4,500-word article.

"We have the chance to get it right, and I am afraid that future generations will not lightly forgive us if we fail."

His intervention ahead of the Conservative Party conference -- where he will address a fringe event on Tuesday -- prompted immediate Tory division.

"Shame he didn't research the link between agreeing a solution that keeps the Irish border frictionless and the chances of agreeing withdrawal terms," former cabinet minister Nicky Morgan wrote on Twitter. "Or does he just not care?"

In contrast, eurosceptic MP Bernard Jenkin called the plan "powerful" while Brexiteer colleague Nadine Dorries called Johnson "a man with a plan".

The blueprint will increase pressure on embattled leader May as her divided party's gathering starts Sunday under the shadow of Brexit.

She has proposed Britain follow EU rules in trade in goods after Brexit, to protect manufacturing supply lines and avoid the hard border between Northern Ireland, a British province, and EU member Ireland.

The plan, forged in July at May's country retreat Chequers, has faced strong opposition in her Conservative party and criticism in Brussels, but she has repeatedly vowed to stick with it.

Johnson reiterated Friday the proposal was a "democratic disaster" that would "cheat the electorate" and leave Britain "half in, half out" of Europe.

Britain is set to leave the EU next March, with both sides agreeing that a provisional divorce deal, comprising assurances on the Irish border among other things, must be reached by mid-November

Britain's Boris Johnson on Friday unveiled his vision for Brexit as he urged Prime Minister Theresa May to pursue a "Super Canada" trade deal, sparking renewed infighting among ruling Conservatives ahead of their annual party conference.

Britain's Boris Johnson on Friday unveiled his vision for Brexit as he urged Prime Minister Theresa May to pursue a "Super Canada" trade deal, sparking renewed infighting among ruling Conservatives ahead of their annual party conference. The former foreign secretary, who resigned from the government in July over the issue, described May's current proposals for the future relationship with the EU as a "moral and intellectual humiliation". Writing in the Daily Telegraph, Johnson outlined a six-point alternative plan, that would scrap a backstop agreement struck with the European Union last December on the contentious Irish border. He argued that adopting technology and making customs checks away from the frontier would prevent a return to a hard border -- a sticking point in negotiations and a key factor in May's proposal. The ardent Brexiteer called for Britain and the EU instead to negotiate a free trade agreement -- dubbed "Super Canada" -- mirroring the deal the bloc signed with Ottawa in 2016. It removed the vast majority of customs duties on exports crossing the Atlantic. He conceded that negotiating such an agreement, which would aim for mutual recognition of standards to keep goods moving and also include services, may require extending any Brexit transition period beyond 2020. "This is the moment to change the course of the negotiations and (to) do justice to the ambitions and potential of Brexit," Johnson wrote in the 4,500-word article. "We have the chance to get it right, and I am afraid that future generations will not lightly forgive us if we fail." His intervention ahead of the Conservative Party conference -- where he will address a fringe event on Tuesday -- prompted immediate Tory division. "Shame he didn't research the link between agreeing a solution that keeps the Irish border frictionless and the chances of agreeing withdrawal terms," former cabinet minister Nicky Morgan wrote on Twitter. "Or does he just not care?" In contrast, eurosceptic MP Bernard Jenkin called the plan "powerful" while Brexiteer colleague Nadine Dorries called Johnson "a man with a plan". The blueprint will increase pressure on embattled leader May as her divided party's gathering starts Sunday under the shadow of Brexit. She has proposed Britain follow EU rules in trade in goods after Brexit, to protect manufacturing supply lines and avoid the hard border between Northern Ireland, a British province, and EU member Ireland. The plan, forged in July at May's country retreat Chequers, has faced strong opposition in her Conservative party and criticism in Brussels, but she has repeatedly vowed to stick with it. Johnson reiterated Friday the proposal was a "democratic disaster" that would "cheat the electorate" and leave Britain "half in, half out" of Europe. Britain is set to leave the EU next March, with both sides agreeing that a provisional divorce deal, comprising assurances on the Irish border among other things, must be reached by mid-November

Boris Johnson's Brexit plan prompts fresh Tory division

The 30-minute circuit also features the 'Theresa May Sack Race,' 'Jacob Rees-Logg lifts' and 'Politico Headslammer' in which participants slam balls on to pictures of British Prime Minister Theresa May and opposition Labour party leader Jeremy Corbyn.

Brexit rage: Londoners hit Boris & Theresa punching bags

Britain's foreign minister Boris Johnson warned that there could be a Brexit meltdown but it will be "all right in the end" and that US&nbsp;President Trump would take a tougher stance were he leading the talks, according to BuzzFeed.

Johnson's comments were secretly recorded at a dinner on Wednesday evening and released on Thursday by the news website hours after ministers found a compromise on a backstop Brexit plan for the Irish border.

Johnson said that Prime Minister Theresa May was beginning to take a harder line but that there would be a need for level-headedness as talks became more difficult in the months ahead.

"I think Theresa is going to go into a phase where we are much more combative with Brussels,” Johnson was recorded saying.

"You’ve got to face the fact there may now be a meltdown. OK? I don’t want anybody to panic during the meltdown. No panic. Pro bono publico, no bloody panic. It’s going to be all right in the end."

Johnson said US&nbsp;President Trump, who is locked in a battle over steel tariffs with European allies including Britain, would take a stronger approach if he were in charge of the negotiations.

"Imagine Trump doing Brexit,” said Johnson.

"He’d go in bloody hard… There’d be all sorts of breakdowns, all sorts of chaos. Everyone would think he’d gone mad. But actually you might get somewhere. It’s a very, very good thought."

A spokeswoman at May's Downing Street office did not offer an immediate comment when contacted by Reuters.

"I think Theresa is going to go into a phase where we are much more combative with Brussels,” Johnson said

Britain's foreign minister Boris Johnson warned that there could be a Brexit meltdown but it will be "all right in the end" and that US President Trump would take a tougher stance were he leading the talks, according to BuzzFeed. Johnson's comments were secretly recorded at a dinner on Wednesday evening and released on Thursday by the news website hours after ministers found a compromise on a backstop Brexit plan for the Irish border. Johnson said that Prime Minister Theresa May was beginning to take a harder line but that there would be a need for level-headedness as talks became more difficult in the months ahead. "I think Theresa is going to go into a phase where we are much more combative with Brussels,” Johnson was recorded saying. "You’ve got to face the fact there may now be a meltdown. OK? I don’t want anybody to panic during the meltdown. No panic. Pro bono publico, no bloody panic. It’s going to be all right in the end." Johnson said US President Trump, who is locked in a battle over steel tariffs with European allies including Britain, would take a stronger approach if he were in charge of the negotiations. "Imagine Trump doing Brexit,” said Johnson. "He’d go in bloody hard… There’d be all sorts of breakdowns, all sorts of chaos. Everyone would think he’d gone mad. But actually you might get somewhere. It’s a very, very good thought." A spokeswoman at May's Downing Street office did not offer an immediate comment when contacted by Reuters.

Brace for a possible 'Brexit meltdown' but don't panic, UK's Johnson cautions: Buzzfeed

British Prime Minister Theresa May will&nbsp;on Thursday&nbsp;publish her preferred fall-back plan to avoid a hard Irish border after Brexit, government sources said, seemingly having overcome opposition from eurosceptic ministers that prompted speculation of a possible resignation.

Brexit minister David Davis was reportedly furious and considered quitting over May's plan in which Britain could stay aligned to the EU's customs union for years after leaving the bloc.

May held separate face-to-face meetings&nbsp;on Thursday&nbsp;morning with Davis and fellow eurosceptics Boris Johnson, the foreign secretary, and trade minister Liam Fox, her Downing Street office said.

Asked if she expected Davis to remain in his position at the end of the day, the prime minister's spokeswoman said: "Yes... of course."

The so-called backstop proposal would kick in only if no other solution were found to avoid customs checks between Northern Ireland and EU member Ireland, but there are fears if implemented that it would last indefinitely.

Davis was said to be concerned about the lack of an end date and was pushing for a provision stating that Britain can withdraw unilaterally from the arrangement -- something Brussels is unlikely to accept.

May's meetings with her ministers came just hours before the cabinet sub-committee charged with taking key decisions on Brexit was due to meet at lunchtime.

Downing Street sources initially said the committee was not going to talk about the backstop, implying it was already agreed in principle.

However, Davis told reporters&nbsp;on Wednesday&nbsp;that it would, saying: "It would be improper of me to pre-empt the negotiation there, but I suspect it will be fairly decisive&nbsp;tomorrow."

Asked if he could stay in his job if the proposals did not have his explicit approval, he said: "That's a question I think for the prime minister to be honest."

Sarah O'Grady, a newspaper journalist and the wife of Davis's chief of staff, had tweeted early&nbsp;Thursday: "Backstop not backed up by DD. Crunch time."

The government insists that it has no intention of using the backstop, and will instead find a way to avoid border checks in Ireland through an overarching trade deal with the EU.

However, striking a new trade deal could take years.

The latest round of Brexit negotiations wrap&nbsp;on Friday, but hopes of a breakthrough at the next EU summit in Brussels at the end of this month are fading.

Both sides say they want to agree a deal by October, to allow time for it to be ratified before Brexit on&nbsp;March 29, 2019.

Brexit minister David Davis was reportedly furious and considered quitting over May's plan in which Britain could stay aligned to the EU's customs union for years after leaving the bloc

British Prime Minister Theresa May will on Thursday publish her preferred fall-back plan to avoid a hard Irish border after Brexit, government sources said, seemingly having overcome opposition from eurosceptic ministers that prompted speculation of a possible resignation. Brexit minister David Davis was reportedly furious and considered quitting over May's plan in which Britain could stay aligned to the EU's customs union for years after leaving the bloc. May held separate face-to-face meetings on Thursday morning with Davis and fellow eurosceptics Boris Johnson, the foreign secretary, and trade minister Liam Fox, her Downing Street office said. Asked if she expected Davis to remain in his position at the end of the day, the prime minister's spokeswoman said: "Yes... of course." The so-called backstop proposal would kick in only if no other solution were found to avoid customs checks between Northern Ireland and EU member Ireland, but there are fears if implemented that it would last indefinitely. Davis was said to be concerned about the lack of an end date and was pushing for a provision stating that Britain can withdraw unilaterally from the arrangement -- something Brussels is unlikely to accept. May's meetings with her ministers came just hours before the cabinet sub-committee charged with taking key decisions on Brexit was due to meet at lunchtime. Downing Street sources initially said the committee was not going to talk about the backstop, implying it was already agreed in principle. However, Davis told reporters on Wednesday that it would, saying: "It would be improper of me to pre-empt the negotiation there, but I suspect it will be fairly decisive tomorrow." Asked if he could stay in his job if the proposals did not have his explicit approval, he said: "That's a question I think for the prime minister to be honest." Sarah O'Grady, a newspaper journalist and the wife of Davis's chief of staff, had tweeted early Thursday: "Backstop not backed up by DD. Crunch time." The government insists that it has no intention of using the backstop, and will instead find a way to avoid border checks in Ireland through an overarching trade deal with the EU. However, striking a new trade deal could take years. The latest round of Brexit negotiations wrap on Friday, but hopes of a breakthrough at the next EU summit in Brussels at the end of this month are fading. Both sides say they want to agree a deal by October, to allow time for it to be ratified before Brexit on March 29, 2019.

UK set to publish Brexit fall-back plan despite cabinet row

Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson said regime change in Iran was not a policy Britain should pursue and that any change would not necessarily be for the better.

Johnson made the comments in parliament on Tuesday in response to a question about whether he thought John Bolton, the US&nbspNational Security Advisor, was seeking regime change in Tehran.

"I have to tell you that I do not believe that regime change in Tehran is the objective that we should be seeking," Johnson said.

"We might conceivably achieve regime change at some stage in the near future but I cannot with any confidence say that would be a change for the better because it seems equally plausible to me to imagine that Qasem Soleimani of the IRGC (Iranian Revolutionary Guards Corps) could put himself in a very good position to take over from Ayatollah Khamenei for instance."

Johnson made the comments in parliament on Tuesday

Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson said regime change in Iran was not a policy Britain should pursue and that any change would not necessarily be for the better. Johnson made the comments in parliament on Tuesday in response to a question about whether he thought John Bolton, the US&nbspNational Security Advisor, was seeking regime change in Tehran. "I have to tell you that I do not believe that regime change in Tehran is the objective that we should be seeking," Johnson said. "We might conceivably achieve regime change at some stage in the near future but I cannot with any confidence say that would be a change for the better because it seems equally plausible to me to imagine that Qasem Soleimani of the IRGC (Iranian Revolutionary Guards Corps) could put himself in a very good position to take over from Ayatollah Khamenei for instance."

UK's Johnson: We should not pursue regime change in Iran

UK's Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson will visit Washington today. Johnson will meet US Vice President Mike Pence, National Security Advisor John Bolton among other Congress leaders.&nbsp;

Johnson will discuss a range of issues at Washinton with the Iran nuclear deal, Syria and North Korea on top of the agenda.&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump described the Iran nuke deal as "insane" and has threatened to pull out of it on its renewal which is due on May 12.&nbsp;

Britain, France and Germany have been trying to keep Trump from abandoning the deal.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump described the Iran nuke deal as "insane" and has threatened to pull out of it on its renewal which is due on May 12

UK's Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson will visit Washington today. Johnson will meet US Vice President Mike Pence, National Security Advisor John Bolton among other Congress leaders. Johnson will discuss a range of issues at Washinton with the Iran nuclear deal, Syria and North Korea on top of the agenda. US President Donald Trump described the Iran nuke deal as "insane" and has threatened to pull out of it on its renewal which is due on May 12. Britain, France and Germany have been trying to keep Trump from abandoning the deal.

UK Foreign Secretary heads to Washington to discuss North Korea, Syria and Iran nuke deal

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in the UK today for a four-day visit of bilateral engagements as well as multilateral discussions as part of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM).

UK Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson received Modi at the Heathrow airport here.

Johnson said he was "excited" about the growing India-UK bilateral trade and that the visit will help build on "huge economic advantages".

"..Thanks to our shared history, we have a living bridge between us? and now we want to build on the incredible tech sector where both India and the UK are making giant strides together," Johnson said in a statement.

Modi is set for a packed day of official engagements today, starting with his bilateral meeting with British Prime Minister Theresa May at 10 Downing Street.

The two leaders are expected to discuss a wide range of issues of mutual interest, including separatism, cross-border terrorism, visas and immigration.

A memorandum of understanding (MoU) on the return of illegal immigrants, which had expired in 2014, will be officially renewed to take into account biometric and other developments in the field, along with a range of nearly a dozen MoUs across different sectors.

Modi will then head to the Science Museum in London to visit the '5000 Years of Science and Innovation' exhibition where he will interact with Indian-origin and other scientists and innovators based in the UK.

The event, hosted by Prince Charles, will include the launch of a new Ayurvedic Centre of Excellence, aimed at creating a first-of-its-kind global network for evidence-based research on yoga and Ayurveda.

A brief stop to garland the Basaveshwara statue -- which Modi had inaugurated during his last visit to the UK in 2015 -- on the banks of the river Thames will then be followed by his second meeting with May at an event hosted by the British prime minister at the Francis Crick Institute.&nbsp;

After an interaction with Indian-origin scientists working on cancer research, malaria and other tropical diseases, both leaders will initiate the India-UK CEOs Forum.

Modi is then scheduled for a private audience with Queen Elizabeth II at Buckingham Palace before the 'Bharat Ki Baat, Sabke Saath' diaspora event, to be telecast live from the iconic Central Hall Westminster in London today.

The event, billed as the centrepiece of the 'Living Bridge' theme of the India-UK bilateral visit, will involve Modi addressing questions from across the world which have already been received via social media.

At the end of the live telecast, he will join Heads of Government from 52 other Commonwealth countries at a dinner hosted by the British prime minister as a formal welcome to CHOGM.

This will be followed by the executive session of the heads in London tomorrow before they head to Windsor for the CHOGM retreat, where the world leaders will interact on an informal basis.&nbsp;

This will conclude Modi's UK visit after which he will leave for India.&nbsp;

According to official estimates, the India-UK bilateral trade stands at USD 13 billion, with the UK among the largest G20 investors into India.&nbsp;

Modi's visit will have a particular focus on the India-UK technological partnership as well as an enhanced role in the Commonwealth.

"India's engagement is absolutely brilliant? there is a recognition that the Commonwealth offers a great opportunity for India and within that opportunity lies an opportunity for the rest of the Commonwealth," says Lord Marland, chairman of the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council (CWEIC).

An Indian prime minister will attend the Commonwealth summit, which is held every two years, after a hiatus of nearly a decade, having last attended the 2009 CHOGM in Trinidad and Tobago.

The Indian government has said that Modi's attendance at the summit this year symbolises the country's wider efforts to step up its role across global forums. This stepped-up engagement is likely to take the form of increased activity within the Commonwealth, including greater resources and manpower as well as financial contributions.&nbsp;

Modi was received at Heathrow by British Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson. He will be in the UK on a four-day visit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in the UK today for a four-day visit of bilateral engagements as well as multilateral discussions as part of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM). UK Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson received Modi at the Heathrow airport here. Johnson said he was "excited" about the growing India-UK bilateral trade and that the visit will help build on "huge economic advantages". "..Thanks to our shared history, we have a living bridge between us? and now we want to build on the incredible tech sector where both India and the UK are making giant strides together," Johnson said in a statement. Modi is set for a packed day of official engagements today, starting with his bilateral meeting with British Prime Minister Theresa May at 10 Downing Street. The two leaders are expected to discuss a wide range of issues of mutual interest, including separatism, cross-border terrorism, visas and immigration. A memorandum of understanding (MoU) on the return of illegal immigrants, which had expired in 2014, will be officially renewed to take into account biometric and other developments in the field, along with a range of nearly a dozen MoUs across different sectors. Modi will then head to the Science Museum in London to visit the '5000 Years of Science and Innovation' exhibition where he will interact with Indian-origin and other scientists and innovators based in the UK. The event, hosted by Prince Charles, will include the launch of a new Ayurvedic Centre of Excellence, aimed at creating a first-of-its-kind global network for evidence-based research on yoga and Ayurveda. A brief stop to garland the Basaveshwara statue -- which Modi had inaugurated during his last visit to the UK in 2015 -- on the banks of the river Thames will then be followed by his second meeting with May at an event hosted by the British prime minister at the Francis Crick Institute. After an interaction with Indian-origin scientists working on cancer research, malaria and other tropical diseases, both leaders will initiate the India-UK CEOs Forum. Modi is then scheduled for a private audience with Queen Elizabeth II at Buckingham Palace before the 'Bharat Ki Baat, Sabke Saath' diaspora event, to be telecast live from the iconic Central Hall Westminster in London today. The event, billed as the centrepiece of the 'Living Bridge' theme of the India-UK bilateral visit, will involve Modi addressing questions from across the world which have already been received via social media. At the end of the live telecast, he will join Heads of Government from 52 other Commonwealth countries at a dinner hosted by the British prime minister as a formal welcome to CHOGM. This will be followed by the executive session of the heads in London tomorrow before they head to Windsor for the CHOGM retreat, where the world leaders will interact on an informal basis. This will conclude Modi's UK visit after which he will leave for India. According to official estimates, the India-UK bilateral trade stands at USD 13 billion, with the UK among the largest G20 investors into India. Modi's visit will have a particular focus on the India-UK technological partnership as well as an enhanced role in the Commonwealth. "India's engagement is absolutely brilliant? there is a recognition that the Commonwealth offers a great opportunity for India and within that opportunity lies an opportunity for the rest of the Commonwealth," says Lord Marland, chairman of the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council (CWEIC). An Indian prime minister will attend the Commonwealth summit, which is held every two years, after a hiatus of nearly a decade, having last attended the 2009 CHOGM in Trinidad and Tobago. The Indian government has said that Modi's attendance at the summit this year symbolises the country's wider efforts to step up its role across global forums. This stepped-up engagement is likely to take the form of increased activity within the Commonwealth, including greater resources and manpower as well as financial contributions.

Modi lands in London for Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting

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