The European Commission on Wednesday said a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boris-johnson-launches-uk-leadership-bid-as-mps-warn-on-brexit-226479">no-deal Brexit was "very much possible"</a> as it updated its contingency preparations and told countries, companies and people to be ready for the expected economic fallout.

The European Union's executive said it would pay particular attention in coming months to crucial areas including citizens rights, financial services, transport and fisheries, ahead of Britain's departure from the bloc, now due on October 31.

Its latest review of the EU's no-deal plans comes as Britain's Conservative Party is picking a new prime minister to replace <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/britain-agrees-brexit-trade-deal-with-south-korea-225990">Theresa May</a>, defeated by her inability to pass through the UK parliament the deal she secured with the bloc seven months ago.

Some possible successors have said Britain would leave the EU at the end of October, deal or no deal.

"In light of the continued uncertainty in the United Kingdom regarding the ratification of the Withdrawal Agreement ... and the overall domestic political situation, a 'no-deal' scenario on 1 November 2019 very much remains possible – although undesirable – outcome," the Commission said.

"The Commission considers that a withdrawal of the United Kingdom without an agreement remains a possible outcome, with all its negative economic consequences."

The Brussels-based executive, which leads Brexit negotiations with London on behalf of the bloc's other 27 member states, said contingency measures already in place remain "fit for purpose".

"Nevertheless, the Commission will continue to monitor political developments and assess if any extension of the adopted measures will be needed," it added.

They include EU plans to extend current access to fishing waters and prolong safety clearances for rail, road and air transport between the bloc and the UK if London reciprocates.

They also offer visa-free travel to UK citizens and a year-long extension of cooperation in some financial services.

The European Commission on Wednesday said a no-deal Brexit was "very much possible" as it updated its contingency preparations and told countries, companies and people to be ready for the expected economic fallout.

The European Commission on Wednesday said a no-deal Brexit was "very much possible" as it updated its contingency preparations and told countries, companies and people to be ready for the expected economic fallout. The European Union's executive said it would pay particular attention in coming months to crucial areas including citizens rights, financial services, transport and fisheries, ahead of Britain's departure from the bloc, now due on October 31. Its latest review of the EU's no-deal plans comes as Britain's Conservative Party is picking a new prime minister to replace Theresa May, defeated by her inability to pass through the UK parliament the deal she secured with the bloc seven months ago. Some possible successors have said Britain would leave the EU at the end of October, deal or no deal. "In light of the continued uncertainty in the United Kingdom regarding the ratification of the Withdrawal Agreement ... and the overall domestic political situation, a 'no-deal' scenario on 1 November 2019 very much remains possible – although undesirable – outcome," the Commission said. "The Commission considers that a withdrawal of the United Kingdom without an agreement remains a possible outcome, with all its negative economic consequences." The Brussels-based executive, which leads Brexit negotiations with London on behalf of the bloc's other 27 member states, said contingency measures already in place remain "fit for purpose". "Nevertheless, the Commission will continue to monitor political developments and assess if any extension of the adopted measures will be needed," it added. They include EU plans to extend current access to fishing waters and prolong safety clearances for rail, road and air transport between the bloc and the UK if London reciprocates. They also offer visa-free travel to UK citizens and a year-long extension of cooperation in some financial services.

No-deal Brexit is very much possible: European Union executive

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

British unemployment has held at a 45-year low, official data showed Tuesday, despite headwinds from Brexit and the slowing global economy.

The unemployment rate remained at 3.8 per cent in the three months to April -- the lowest level since the final quarter of 1974, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) said in a statement.

The reading was unchanged from the rate in the quarter to March and matched market expectations.

"All in all, there's very little here to suggest any weakness" in the labour market, said analyst David Cheetham at online trading firm XTB.

However, he sounded a note of caution about the impact of Brexit and the slowing global economy.

"The overall picture for the UK economy remains one that is far from thriving and looks to be simply treading water, to be honest," Cheetham said.

"But given the dual headwinds of ongoing political uncertainty and a slowing global economy, the current level of activity could arguably be viewed as about as good as could be expected under these circumstances."

Official data Monday showed UK gross domestic product contracted 0.4 per cent in April on a slump in manufacturing caused largely by Brexit uncertainty.

British unemployment has held at a 45-year low, official data showed Tuesday, despite headwinds from Brexit and the slowing global economy. The unemployment rate remained at 3.

British unemployment has held at a 45-year low, official data showed Tuesday, despite headwinds from Brexit and the slowing global economy. The unemployment rate remained at 3.8 per cent in the three months to April -- the lowest level since the final quarter of 1974, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) said in a statement. The reading was unchanged from the rate in the quarter to March and matched market expectations. "All in all, there's very little here to suggest any weakness" in the labour market, said analyst David Cheetham at online trading firm XTB. However, he sounded a note of caution about the impact of Brexit and the slowing global economy. "The overall picture for the UK economy remains one that is far from thriving and looks to be simply treading water, to be honest," Cheetham said. "But given the dual headwinds of ongoing political uncertainty and a slowing global economy, the current level of activity could arguably be viewed as about as good as could be expected under these circumstances." Official data Monday showed UK gross domestic product contracted 0.4 per cent in April on a slump in manufacturing caused largely by Brexit uncertainty.

UK unemployment rate holds at 45-year low

Britain said Monday it had concluded a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-promises-uk-pm-theresa-may-very-substantial-trade-deal-after-brexit-224218">trade deal</a> with South Korea to maintain links after Brexit.

International Trade Secretary Liam Fox has agreed on a preliminary deal with Korean Minister of Trade Yoo Myung-Hee in Seoul, the UK government said in a statement.

It is Britain's first post-Brexit trade deal in Asia and follows similar agreements with nations including Chile, Iceland, Norway and Switzerland.

"The UK and South Korea have signed an in principle free trade agreement that will allow businesses to continue trading freely after Brexit," read a government statement.

"Trading on these terms rather than on World Trade Organization terms will deliver significant savings and help to safeguard British jobs."

The deal means British businesses can continue enjoying preferential terms with South Korea after Britain leaves the European Union at the end of October.

Trade between the two countries was £14.6 billion ($18.6 billion, 16.4 billion euros) in 2018, and has risen by 12 per cent per year on average since the EU signed a free trade deal with South Korea in 2011.&nbsp;

"This means that whatever happens with Brexit, there will be total continuity in trade between our two countries and the basis for an ambitious future free trade agreement when we leave the EU," tweeted Fox.

Britain is scheduled to leave the bloc on October 31, when it will lose access to major markets covered by EU trade agreements, although it is seeking to replicate some of these.

However, without a Brexit agreement between London and Brussels, the UK will default to "third country" status with the EU, with trade relations run on World Trade Organization rules.

Britain said Monday it had concluded a trade deal with South Korea to maintain links after Brexit. International Trade Secretary Liam Fox has agreed on a preliminary deal with Korean Minister of Trade Yoo Myung-Hee in Seoul, the UK government said in a statement.

Britain said Monday it had concluded a trade deal with South Korea to maintain links after Brexit. International Trade Secretary Liam Fox has agreed on a preliminary deal with Korean Minister of Trade Yoo Myung-Hee in Seoul, the UK government said in a statement. It is Britain's first post-Brexit trade deal in Asia and follows similar agreements with nations including Chile, Iceland, Norway and Switzerland. "The UK and South Korea have signed an in principle free trade agreement that will allow businesses to continue trading freely after Brexit," read a government statement. "Trading on these terms rather than on World Trade Organization terms will deliver significant savings and help to safeguard British jobs." The deal means British businesses can continue enjoying preferential terms with South Korea after Britain leaves the European Union at the end of October. Trade between the two countries was £14.6 billion ($18.6 billion, 16.4 billion euros) in 2018, and has risen by 12 per cent per year on average since the EU signed a free trade deal with South Korea in 2011. "This means that whatever happens with Brexit, there will be total continuity in trade between our two countries and the basis for an ambitious future free trade agreement when we leave the EU," tweeted Fox. Britain is scheduled to leave the bloc on October 31, when it will lose access to major markets covered by EU trade agreements, although it is seeking to replicate some of these. However, without a Brexit agreement between London and Brussels, the UK will default to "third country" status with the EU, with trade relations run on World Trade Organization rules.

Britain agrees Brexit trade deal with South Korea

<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?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/will-boris-johnson-be-the-next-uk-pm-221660/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

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

British Prime Minister Theresa May officially stepped&nbsp;down as leader of Conservative Party on Friday, formally triggering the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/theresa-mays-successor-must-abandon-her-deal-with-european-union-and-leave-on-october-31-pro-brexit-conservatives-224551"> race for a successor</a> who will try where she failed to deliver Brexit.

May will remain prime minister until a new leader is chosen, likely in late July, but has relinquished control over the direction of Britain's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/free-from-brexit-burden-pm-theresa-may-watches-england-vs-south-africa-world-cup-match-222792">tortuous departure</a> from the European Union(EU).

Brexit is still scheduled for October 31 but while her rivals thrash it out, the project remains stuck, with the only divorce plan agreed with Brussels stuck in parliament.

May took office after the 2016 referendum vote to leave the EU and has spent the past three years working on the plan, delaying Brexit twice to try to get it through.

But she finally acknowledged defeat in a tearful resignation speech last month, the culmination of months of political turmoil that has slowly sapped all her authority.

Eleven Conservative MPs are currently vying to replace her, including former foreign minister Boris Johnson, but some are expected to drop out before Monday's deadline for nominations.

The winner will have only a few months to decide whether to try to salvage May's plan, delay Brexit again -- or sever ties with Britain's closest trading partner with no agreement at all.

They are under pressure from eurosceptic figurehead Nigel Farage, who has called for a "no deal" option and whose Brexit party topped European polls last month.

His party made a strong showing in by-election for the British parliament in the eastern city of Peterborough on Thursday, but failed in its goal of winning its first MP.

However, the pro-European Liberal Democrats, who want to reverse Brexit, also performed well in the European polls, highlighting how divided Britain remains over its future.&nbsp;

Watch: Race to replace Theresa May; Who will be the next PM?

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May will formally relinquish her leadership in a private letter to her party on Friday, but no official events are planned to mark the day.

She put on a brave face this week when hosting US President Donald Trump for a state visit, before joining him and other world leaders to mark 75 years since the D-day landings.

But Trump used the trip to speak with Johnson and other candidates to replace her, emphasising where the political power in Britain now lies.

"She remains prime minister for a good few weeks yet," May's spokesman insisted, noting that any successor must meet Queen Elizabeth II and assure the monarch they have the support of enough lawmakers to take over.

He said May would focus on domestic issues, but "in relation to Brexit, the prime minister said it wouldn't be for her to take this process forward".

Trump has been highly critical of May's Brexit strategy and ahead of his visit to Britain, urged her successor to leave the bloc with no deal if necessary.

Johnson, a leading campaigner in the 2016 referendum who quit the government last year over May's plan, is among several would-be candidates who say they are willing to do this.

But Environment Secretary Michael Gove, another frontrunner, is open to other Brexit delay, while Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt has said leaving with no deal is "political suicide".

Trump had a phone call with Johnson this week and met both Hunt and Farage, although a planned meeting with Gove never materialised.

Nominations for the contest must be submitted on Monday, and the 313 Conservative MPs -- including May -- will hold the first of a series of secret ballots on June 13.

With the worst performers eliminated each time, the goal is to have two candidates left by June 20. They will then be put to a ballot of an estimated 100,000 party members.

The contest should be completed by the week commencing July 22.

British Prime Minister Theresa May officially stepped down as leader of Conservative Party on Friday, formally triggering the race for a successor who will try where she failed to deliver Brexit.

British Prime Minister Theresa May officially stepped down as leader of Conservative Party on Friday, formally triggering the race for a successor who will try where she failed to deliver Brexit. May will remain prime minister until a new leader is chosen, likely in late July, but has relinquished control over the direction of Britain's tortuous departure from the European Union(EU). Brexit is still scheduled for October 31 but while her rivals thrash it out, the project remains stuck, with the only divorce plan agreed with Brussels stuck in parliament. May took office after the 2016 referendum vote to leave the EU and has spent the past three years working on the plan, delaying Brexit twice to try to get it through. But she finally acknowledged defeat in a tearful resignation speech last month, the culmination of months of political turmoil that has slowly sapped all her authority. Eleven Conservative MPs are currently vying to replace her, including former foreign minister Boris Johnson, but some are expected to drop out before Monday's deadline for nominations. The winner will have only a few months to decide whether to try to salvage May's plan, delay Brexit again -- or sever ties with Britain's closest trading partner with no agreement at all. They are under pressure from eurosceptic figurehead Nigel Farage, who has called for a "no deal" option and whose Brexit party topped European polls last month. His party made a strong showing in by-election for the British parliament in the eastern city of Peterborough on Thursday, but failed in its goal of winning its first MP. However, the pro-European Liberal Democrats, who want to reverse Brexit, also performed well in the European polls, highlighting how divided Britain remains over its future. Watch: Race to replace Theresa May; Who will be the next PM? × May will formally relinquish her leadership in a private letter to her party on Friday, but no official events are planned to mark the day. She put on a brave face this week when hosting US President Donald Trump for a state visit, before joining him and other world leaders to mark 75 years since the D-day landings. But Trump used the trip to speak with Johnson and other candidates to replace her, emphasising where the political power in Britain now lies. "She remains prime minister for a good few weeks yet," May's spokesman insisted, noting that any successor must meet Queen Elizabeth II and assure the monarch they have the support of enough lawmakers to take over. He said May would focus on domestic issues, but "in relation to Brexit, the prime minister said it wouldn't be for her to take this process forward". Trump has been highly critical of May's Brexit strategy and ahead of his visit to Britain, urged her successor to leave the bloc with no deal if necessary. Johnson, a leading campaigner in the 2016 referendum who quit the government last year over May's plan, is among several would-be candidates who say they are willing to do this. But Environment Secretary Michael Gove, another frontrunner, is open to other Brexit delay, while Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt has said leaving with no deal is "political suicide". Trump had a phone call with Johnson this week and met both Hunt and Farage, although a planned meeting with Gove never materialised. Nominations for the contest must be submitted on Monday, and the 313 Conservative MPs -- including May -- will hold the first of a series of secret ballots on June 13. With the worst performers eliminated each time, the goal is to have two candidates left by June 20. They will then be put to a ballot of an estimated 100,000 party members. The contest should be completed by the week commencing July 22.

British PM Theresa May quits as party leader; triggers succession race

Brexit Claims Another Prime Minister. Theresa May Steps Down From The Post. What Next.

Gravitas: Brexit Claims Another PM: May Steps Down

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

UK PM Theresa May to officially resign today. But May will remain in office until another new PM is elected.

UK PM May to officially resign today

Anti-EU populist Nigel Farage's new <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/theresa-mays-successor-must-abandon-her-deal-with-european-union-and-leave-on-october-31-pro-brexit-conservatives-224551">Brexit Party failed to win </a>its first seat in Britain's parliament as it lost out to the main opposition Labour Party in a crunch by-election, results on Friday showed.

The poll in the eastern English city of Peterborough was triggered after the sitting MP, Fiona Onasanya, was dumped by voters after being jailed for lying over a speeding offence.

The Brexit Party's candidate Mike Greene, a local entrepreneur, came in second with nearly 29 per cent of the vote, behind Labour's Lisa Forbes.

The ruling Conservatives came third with 21 per cent, while the Liberal Democrats won 12 per cent.&nbsp;

Friday's result is a setback for the Brexit Party -- founded by eurosceptic figurehead Farage only a few months ago -- which came out on top in the European elections in May with 31.6 per cent of votes cast.&nbsp;

It had been seeking to capitalise on that momentum as well as voter disillusionment with the main Conservative and Labour parties, who have historically shared the Peterborough seat.

Prime Minister Theresa May is stepping down after delaying Brexit twice as she tried and failed to get her EU divorce deal through parliament.

Farage, who has called for Britain to leave the bloc without a deal, said last weekend while campaigning he saw the by-election as "the opportunity for the next chapter in this great story".

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn called said that the result "shows that despite the divisions and deadlock over Brexit, when it comes to a vote on the issues that directly affect people's lives, Labour's case for real change has strong support across the country."&nbsp;

The Brexit Party had been heavy favourites to win the Leave-voting seat, but despite losing, their performance will still be a concern to the two main parties.

Labour's vote share fell by 17 per cent from 2017, and was the lowest ever to win a British by-election, while the Conservatives plunged by 25 per cent.&nbsp;

Leading pollster John Curtice told the BBC said the result showed the country was now in a "different political world".

"A lot of constituencies are now looking at four-party politics and perhaps in others five party politics," added Farage. 
&nbsp;

Anti-EU populist Nigel Farage's new Brexit Party failed to win its first seat in Britain's parliament as it lost out to the main opposition Labour Party in a crunch by-election, results on Friday showed.

Anti-EU populist Nigel Farage's new Brexit Party failed to win its first seat in Britain's parliament as it lost out to the main opposition Labour Party in a crunch by-election, results on Friday showed. The poll in the eastern English city of Peterborough was triggered after the sitting MP, Fiona Onasanya, was dumped by voters after being jailed for lying over a speeding offence. The Brexit Party's candidate Mike Greene, a local entrepreneur, came in second with nearly 29 per cent of the vote, behind Labour's Lisa Forbes. The ruling Conservatives came third with 21 per cent, while the Liberal Democrats won 12 per cent. Friday's result is a setback for the Brexit Party -- founded by eurosceptic figurehead Farage only a few months ago -- which came out on top in the European elections in May with 31.6 per cent of votes cast. It had been seeking to capitalise on that momentum as well as voter disillusionment with the main Conservative and Labour parties, who have historically shared the Peterborough seat. Prime Minister Theresa May is stepping down after delaying Brexit twice as she tried and failed to get her EU divorce deal through parliament. Farage, who has called for Britain to leave the bloc without a deal, said last weekend while campaigning he saw the by-election as "the opportunity for the next chapter in this great story". Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn called said that the result "shows that despite the divisions and deadlock over Brexit, when it comes to a vote on the issues that directly affect people's lives, Labour's case for real change has strong support across the country." The Brexit Party had been heavy favourites to win the Leave-voting seat, but despite losing, their performance will still be a concern to the two main parties. Labour's vote share fell by 17 per cent from 2017, and was the lowest ever to win a British by-election, while the Conservatives plunged by 25 per cent. Leading pollster John Curtice told the BBC said the result showed the country was now in a "different political world". "A lot of constituencies are now looking at four-party politics and perhaps in others five party politics," added Farage.

UK: Nigel Farage's new Brexit Party fails to win by-election against Labour

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

President Donald Trump says the United States is committed to a "phenomenal" trade deal with Britain as it prepares to leave the European Union. Prime Minister Theresa May has been dogged by her failure to achieve Brexit and is stepping down this week as head of her Conservative Party but will remain as prime minister until her successor is chosen. It will be the new prime minister's responsibility to achieve Brexit and any bilateral trade deal with the US.

Trump 'tremendous potential' in US-UK trade deal

Theresa May said, We are committed to trade deal with US after Brexit. She also said, We will work together to strengthen our alliance. Watch this complete video to know more.

Trump & May Hold Joint Press Conference

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

US&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-turns-to-brexit-and-huawei-as-protesters-mock-with-a-blimp-224195">President Donald Trump</a> touted a "very, very substantial trade deal" between the United States and Britain after Brexit as he met Prime Minister Theresa May on Tuesday for fraught talks held amid street protests.

He joked to the outgoing British leader that she should "stick around" and reach a much stronger economic alliance with the United States once her country finally leaves the European Union.

"I think we will have a very very substantial trade deal. It will be a very fair deal," he told her at a meeting with business leaders and ministers, adding: "We're going to get it done."

Despite having repeatedly criticised May's Brexit strategy, Trump said she had done "a fantastic job".

Nearby, left-wing activists inflated an orange blimp of a baby Trump dressed in a diaper at a rally outside parliament that brought morning rush hour traffic to a halt.

It signalled the start of what are expected to be large protests against the president on the second day of his three-day state visit.

Watch:&nbsp;Thousands protesting against Donald Trump's UK state visit

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"Trump baby is just a mascot for a massive movement against Trump's hateful and divisive politics," organiser Leo Murray told AFP.

'Fantastic job'

The president's visit is technically centred around Wednesday's D-Day 75th anniversary commemorations on the south shore of England.

But it comes at an especially chaotic time for Britain.

May will step down as Conservative Party leader on Friday over her inability to deliver Brexit despite focusing on little else in almost three years in office.

She will stay on as prime minister until her successor is found among 13 contenders who must make some difficult choices before the twice-delayed Brexit deadline on October 31.

Before he arrived, Trump urged Britain to walk away from the EU without an agreement.

He also suggested that Brexit-backing former foreign minister Boris Johnson would be an "excellent" leader to get it done.

He appeared to try to make amends for his diplomatic faux pas on Tuesday.

"I'd just like to congratulate you on having done a fantastic job on behalf of the people of the United States and its an honour to have worked with you," Trump told May.

But the "special relationship" between the two sides is being tested over different approaches to Iran, climate change and China.

Talks are likely to cover Britain's possible use of Chinese firm Huawei's technology in building its 5G network.

A senior UK government official told The Times newspaper that May would make "no apologies" over her reported decision to let Huawei build some non-essential parts of the next-generation mobile service.

The US administration has strongly hinted that this may limit its ability to share intelligence with Britain.

May told the business breakfast that Britain will strive to strike a "wider economic partnership" with its closest trading partner outside the EU.

"It is a great partnership, but I think it’s a partnership that we can take even further," she said.

She will give Trump a copy of one of the most significant documents in the transatlantic "special relationship" -- a framed copy of Winston Churchill's personal draft of the 1941 Atlantic Charter that which defined the Allied goals post-World War II.

The two will later have a private tour of the Churchill War Rooms from which the wartime prime minister ran his operations.

'Noise protests'

Their talks are set to be accompanied by the sounds of "noise protests" of thousands of anti-Trump activists.

Opposition Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn promised to speak at the rally after skipping a banquet hosted by Queen Elizabeth II at Buckingham Palace on Monday in protest at Trump's policies.

Trump's day will be rounded off with dinner at the US ambassador's residence.

The heir to the throne Prince Charles and his wife Camilla will attend on behalf of the queen.

"The Queen and the entire royal family have been fantastic," Trump tweeted on Monday.

US President Donald Trump touted a "very, very substantial trade deal" between the United States and Britain after Brexit as he met Prime Minister Theresa May on Tuesday for fraught talks held amid street protests.

US President Donald Trump touted a "very, very substantial trade deal" between the United States and Britain after Brexit as he met Prime Minister Theresa May on Tuesday for fraught talks held amid street protests. He joked to the outgoing British leader that she should "stick around" and reach a much stronger economic alliance with the United States once her country finally leaves the European Union. "I think we will have a very very substantial trade deal. It will be a very fair deal," he told her at a meeting with business leaders and ministers, adding: "We're going to get it done." Despite having repeatedly criticised May's Brexit strategy, Trump said she had done "a fantastic job". Nearby, left-wing activists inflated an orange blimp of a baby Trump dressed in a diaper at a rally outside parliament that brought morning rush hour traffic to a halt. It signalled the start of what are expected to be large protests against the president on the second day of his three-day state visit. Watch: Thousands protesting against Donald Trump's UK state visit "Trump baby is just a mascot for a massive movement against Trump's hateful and divisive politics," organiser Leo Murray told AFP. 'Fantastic job' The president's visit is technically centred around Wednesday's D-Day 75th anniversary commemorations on the south shore of England. But it comes at an especially chaotic time for Britain. May will step down as Conservative Party leader on Friday over her inability to deliver Brexit despite focusing on little else in almost three years in office. She will stay on as prime minister until her successor is found among 13 contenders who must make some difficult choices before the twice-delayed Brexit deadline on October 31. Before he arrived, Trump urged Britain to walk away from the EU without an agreement. He also suggested that Brexit-backing former foreign minister Boris Johnson would be an "excellent" leader to get it done. He appeared to try to make amends for his diplomatic faux pas on Tuesday. "I'd just like to congratulate you on having done a fantastic job on behalf of the people of the United States and its an honour to have worked with you," Trump told May. But the "special relationship" between the two sides is being tested over different approaches to Iran, climate change and China. Talks are likely to cover Britain's possible use of Chinese firm Huawei's technology in building its 5G network. A senior UK government official told The Times newspaper that May would make "no apologies" over her reported decision to let Huawei build some non-essential parts of the next-generation mobile service. The US administration has strongly hinted that this may limit its ability to share intelligence with Britain. May told the business breakfast that Britain will strive to strike a "wider economic partnership" with its closest trading partner outside the EU. "It is a great partnership, but I think it’s a partnership that we can take even further," she said. She will give Trump a copy of one of the most significant documents in the transatlantic "special relationship" -- a framed copy of Winston Churchill's personal draft of the 1941 Atlantic Charter that which defined the Allied goals post-World War II. The two will later have a private tour of the Churchill War Rooms from which the wartime prime minister ran his operations. 'Noise protests' Their talks are set to be accompanied by the sounds of "noise protests" of thousands of anti-Trump activists. Opposition Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn promised to speak at the rally after skipping a banquet hosted by Queen Elizabeth II at Buckingham Palace on Monday in protest at Trump's policies. Trump's day will be rounded off with dinner at the US ambassador's residence. The heir to the throne Prince Charles and his wife Camilla will attend on behalf of the queen. "The Queen and the entire royal family have been fantastic," Trump tweeted on Monday.

Donald Trump promises UK PM Theresa May 'very substantial' trade deal after Brexit

US President Donald Trump will plunge into Britain's Brexit crisis on Tuesday and is likely to demand that Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-theresa-may-seek-to-deepen-bilateral-trade-224060">Theresa May's successor ban China's Huawei</a> from 5G networks, as protesters mock Trump across London.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-calls-queen-elizabeth-a-great-great-woman-at-state-banquet-224027">Feted by Queen Elizabeth</a> and heir Prince Charles on the first day of his state visit to Britain, Trump turns to politics on Tuesday with talks in Downing Street, a news conference scheduled for 1245 GMT and a dinner that could include leaders of Brexit, such as Boris Johnson, the favourite to succeed May.

Trump brings with him a list of demands for the United States' closest ally in Europe, including for a tougher British stance towards telecoms giant Huawei.

At a lavish banquet in Buckingham Palace, Trump praised the queen as "a great, great woman" and said the United States and the United Kingdom shared an enduring alliance.

"As we honour our shared victory and heritage, we affirm the common values that will unite us long into the future; freedom, sovereignty, self-determination, the rule of law and reverence for the rights given to us by almighty God," he said.

Watch:&nbsp;Trump kicks off state visit to the UK

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The state visit, promised by May back in January 2017 when she became the first foreign leader to meet him after he took office, is cast as a chance to celebrate Britain's "special relationship" with the United States, boost trade links and reaffirm security cooperation.

But the collapse of May's premiership over Brexit and Trump's penchant for ignoring the conventions of modern diplomacy have made the trip one of the most unconventional state visits in recent British history.

Before Air Force One even touched down on British soil, Trump praised Johnson, the former foreign secretary and leading Brexit campaigner, and advised a sharp exit from the European Union on October&nbsp;31 with or without a deal.

Trump also called for arch-Brexiteer Nigel Farage, a scourge of May's ruling Conservative Party, to conduct talks with the EU.

Brexit, blimp and China

Brexit is the most significant geopolitical move for the United Kingdom since World War Two and if it happens, London will be more reliant on the United States as ties loosen with the other 27 members of the EU.

Huawei will top talks in London after the British government appeared to defy Trump administration demands and allow the Chinese company a limited role in building 5G networks.

"We've been clear: Our ask is that our allies and our partners and our friends don’t do anything that would endanger our shared security interests or restrict our ability to share sensitive information," US&nbsp;Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said.

The Trump administration has told allies not to use Huawei's 5G technology and equipment because it fears that would allow China to spy on sensitive communications and data. Huawei denies it is, or could be, a vehicle for Chinese intelligence.

Notwithstanding Britain's enduring alliance with the United States, some British voters see Trump as crude, volatile and opposed to their values on issues ranging from global warming to his treatment of women.

A giant inflatable blimp depicting Trump as a pouting baby in a diaper was inflated outside the British parliament in London on Tuesday ahead of what is expected to be one of the city's largest protests against a foreign leader.

"We're trying to remind the president how unwelcome he is in this country," said Leo Murray, the co-creator of the blimp. "Donald Trump is childish, trivial, insulting. He embodies all of these things. This is an incredibly apt way to welcome him."

In central London, tens of thousands of protesters are expected to take part in a "Carnival of Resistance" later in the day to voice their opposition to the president. Among those taking part will be environmental activists, anti-racism campaigners and women’s rights protesters.

Jeremy Corbyn, the veteran socialist leader of Britain's opposition Labour Party, is due to speak at the protest. Trump supporters said Corbyn's participation was an insulting step too far for a leader of Britain's main opposition party.

While some Britons protest, May and Trump held a business breakfast at St James' Palace with US&nbsp;firms such as Lockheed Martin Corp, JP Morgan Chase and Co, Goldman Sachs Group Inc, construction company Bechtel and cybersecurity and data analytics firm Splunk Inc.

May will present Trump with a framed reproduction of the Atlantic Charter, which hung on wartime Prime Minister Winston Churchill's wall and set out principles of free trade and collective security that formed the basis of the postwar peace.

US President Donald Trump will plunge into Britain's Brexit crisis on Tuesday and is likely to demand that Prime Minister Theresa May's successor ban China's Huawei from 5G networks, as protesters mock Trump across London.

US President Donald Trump will plunge into Britain's Brexit crisis on Tuesday and is likely to demand that Prime Minister Theresa May's successor ban China's Huawei from 5G networks, as protesters mock Trump across London. Feted by Queen Elizabeth and heir Prince Charles on the first day of his state visit to Britain, Trump turns to politics on Tuesday with talks in Downing Street, a news conference scheduled for 1245 GMT and a dinner that could include leaders of Brexit, such as Boris Johnson, the favourite to succeed May. Trump brings with him a list of demands for the United States' closest ally in Europe, including for a tougher British stance towards telecoms giant Huawei. At a lavish banquet in Buckingham Palace, Trump praised the queen as "a great, great woman" and said the United States and the United Kingdom shared an enduring alliance. "As we honour our shared victory and heritage, we affirm the common values that will unite us long into the future; freedom, sovereignty, self-determination, the rule of law and reverence for the rights given to us by almighty God," he said. Watch: Trump kicks off state visit to the UK The state visit, promised by May back in January 2017 when she became the first foreign leader to meet him after he took office, is cast as a chance to celebrate Britain's "special relationship" with the United States, boost trade links and reaffirm security cooperation. But the collapse of May's premiership over Brexit and Trump's penchant for ignoring the conventions of modern diplomacy have made the trip one of the most unconventional state visits in recent British history. Before Air Force One even touched down on British soil, Trump praised Johnson, the former foreign secretary and leading Brexit campaigner, and advised a sharp exit from the European Union on October 31 with or without a deal. Trump also called for arch-Brexiteer Nigel Farage, a scourge of May's ruling Conservative Party, to conduct talks with the EU. Brexit, blimp and China Brexit is the most significant geopolitical move for the United Kingdom since World War Two and if it happens, London will be more reliant on the United States as ties loosen with the other 27 members of the EU. Huawei will top talks in London after the British government appeared to defy Trump administration demands and allow the Chinese company a limited role in building 5G networks. "We've been clear: Our ask is that our allies and our partners and our friends don’t do anything that would endanger our shared security interests or restrict our ability to share sensitive information," US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said. The Trump administration has told allies not to use Huawei's 5G technology and equipment because it fears that would allow China to spy on sensitive communications and data. Huawei denies it is, or could be, a vehicle for Chinese intelligence. Notwithstanding Britain's enduring alliance with the United States, some British voters see Trump as crude, volatile and opposed to their values on issues ranging from global warming to his treatment of women. A giant inflatable blimp depicting Trump as a pouting baby in a diaper was inflated outside the British parliament in London on Tuesday ahead of what is expected to be one of the city's largest protests against a foreign leader. "We're trying to remind the president how unwelcome he is in this country," said Leo Murray, the co-creator of the blimp. "Donald Trump is childish, trivial, insulting. He embodies all of these things. This is an incredibly apt way to welcome him." In central London, tens of thousands of protesters are expected to take part in a "Carnival of Resistance" later in the day to voice their opposition to the president. Among those taking part will be environmental activists, anti-racism campaigners and women’s rights protesters. Jeremy Corbyn, the veteran socialist leader of Britain's opposition Labour Party, is due to speak at the protest. Trump supporters said Corbyn's participation was an insulting step too far for a leader of Britain's main opposition party. While some Britons protest, May and Trump held a business breakfast at St James' Palace with US firms such as Lockheed Martin Corp, JP Morgan Chase and Co, Goldman Sachs Group Inc, construction company Bechtel and cybersecurity and data analytics firm Splunk Inc. May will present Trump with a framed reproduction of the Atlantic Charter, which hung on wartime Prime Minister Winston Churchill's wall and set out principles of free trade and collective security that formed the basis of the postwar peace.

Donald Trump turns to Brexit and Huawei, protesters mock with a 'blimp'

US President Donald Trump arrives in Britain on Monday for a state visit laden with diplomatic peril, after taking a dig at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-tells-uk-to-walk-away-if-eu-does-not-give-what-it-wants-in-brexit-report-223648">outgoing Prime Minister Theresa</a> May over Brexit and demanding she be tougher in dealing with China's Huawei.

Trump and his wife, Melania, will be treated to a display of British royal pageantry during the June 3-5 visit: lunch with Queen Elizabeth, tea with heir Prince Charles, a banquet at Buckingham Palace and a tour of Westminster Abbey, coronation church of English monarchs for 1,000 years.

Beyond the pomp, though, the US president also brings demands: He has praised a more radical Brexit-supporting potential successor to May and his envoys have urged a tougher British stance towards Chinese telecoms giant Huawei.

"So we will be going to the UK, I think it will be very important, it certainly will be very interesting, there's lot going on in the UK, and I am sure it is going to work out very well for them," Trump told reporters before departing.

"As you know they want to do trade with the United States, and I think there is an opportunity for a very big trade deal at some point in the near future. And we will see how that works out."

Trump was asked about reports that he had cast Meghan Markle, wife of Prince Harry, as "nasty" for criticising him.

"No, I made no bad comment," Trump told reporters. On Twitter he said: "I never called Meghan Markle "nasty." Made up by the Fake News Media, and they got caught cold!"

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
I never called Meghan Markle “nasty.” Made up by the Fake News Media, and they got caught cold! Will <a href="https://twitter.com/CNN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CNN</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/nytimes?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nytimes</a> and others apologize? Doubt it!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1135165268261519361?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
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But in what is likely to be the most unconventional state visit in recent memory, Trump has already waded far into British domestic politics.

In an interview with the Sunday Times newspaper, Trump said the next British leader should send arch-Brexiteer Nigel Farage to conduct talks with the EU.

"If they don't get what they want, I would walk away. If you don't get a fair deal, you walk away."

Trump repeated his backing for those candidates to succeed May who have said Britain must leave on the due date of October 31 with or without a deal.

Those candidates include former foreign secretary Boris Johnson, whom Trump praised in an interview with the Sun newspaper on Friday, along with former Brexit minister Dominic Raab and interior minister Sajid Javid.

Trump said it was a mistake for the Conservatives not to involve Farage, the Brexit Party leader, in talks with Brussels after his success in European Parliament elections last month.

A meeting with either Johnson, favourite to succeed May, or Farage, a populist anti-establishment campaigner, would be seen as a snub for May who is bowing out after failing to negotiate a Brexit deal that parliament could ratify.

On his last visit to the United Kingdom, in July last year, Trump shocked Britain's political establishment by hammering May's Brexit negotiation for being too weak with the EU and by praising rival Johnson as a "great" potential prime minister.

Brexit is the most significant geopolitical move for the United Kingdom since World War Two and if it ever happens then London will be more reliant on the United States as ties loosen with the other 27 members of the EU.

At a meeting with May, Trump will warn Britain that security cooperation could be hurt if London allows China's Huawei a role in building parts of the 5G network, the next generation of cellular technology.

The Trump administration has told allies not to use its 5G technology and equipment because of fears it would allow China to spy on sensitive communications and data. Huawei denies it is, or could be, a vehicle for Chinese intelligence.

US&nbsp;Secretary of State Mike Pompeo told Britain last month it needed to change its attitude towards China and Huawei, casting the world's second largest economy as a threat to the West similar to that once posed by the Soviet Union.

Britain's so-called special relationship with the United States is an enduring alliance, but some British voters see Trump as crude, volatile and opposed to their values on issues ranging from global warming to his treatment of women.

US President Donald Trump arrives in Britain on Monday for a state visit laden with diplomatic peril, after taking a dig at outgoing Prime Minister Theresa May over Brexit and demanding she be tougher in dealing with China's Huawei.

US President Donald Trump arrives in Britain on Monday for a state visit laden with diplomatic peril, after taking a dig at outgoing Prime Minister Theresa May over Brexit and demanding she be tougher in dealing with China's Huawei. Trump and his wife, Melania, will be treated to a display of British royal pageantry during the June 3-5 visit: lunch with Queen Elizabeth, tea with heir Prince Charles, a banquet at Buckingham Palace and a tour of Westminster Abbey, coronation church of English monarchs for 1,000 years. Beyond the pomp, though, the US president also brings demands: He has praised a more radical Brexit-supporting potential successor to May and his envoys have urged a tougher British stance towards Chinese telecoms giant Huawei. "So we will be going to the UK, I think it will be very important, it certainly will be very interesting, there's lot going on in the UK, and I am sure it is going to work out very well for them," Trump told reporters before departing. "As you know they want to do trade with the United States, and I think there is an opportunity for a very big trade deal at some point in the near future. And we will see how that works out." Trump was asked about reports that he had cast Meghan Markle, wife of Prince Harry, as "nasty" for criticising him. "No, I made no bad comment," Trump told reporters. On Twitter he said: "I never called Meghan Markle "nasty." Made up by the Fake News Media, and they got caught cold!" I never called Meghan Markle “nasty.” Made up by the Fake News Media, and they got caught cold! Will @CNN, @nytimes and others apologize? Doubt it! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 2, 2019 × But in what is likely to be the most unconventional state visit in recent memory, Trump has already waded far into British domestic politics. In an interview with the Sunday Times newspaper, Trump said the next British leader should send arch-Brexiteer Nigel Farage to conduct talks with the EU. "If they don't get what they want, I would walk away. If you don't get a fair deal, you walk away." Trump repeated his backing for those candidates to succeed May who have said Britain must leave on the due date of October 31 with or without a deal. Those candidates include former foreign secretary Boris Johnson, whom Trump praised in an interview with the Sun newspaper on Friday, along with former Brexit minister Dominic Raab and interior minister Sajid Javid. Trump said it was a mistake for the Conservatives not to involve Farage, the Brexit Party leader, in talks with Brussels after his success in European Parliament elections last month. A meeting with either Johnson, favourite to succeed May, or Farage, a populist anti-establishment campaigner, would be seen as a snub for May who is bowing out after failing to negotiate a Brexit deal that parliament could ratify. On his last visit to the United Kingdom, in July last year, Trump shocked Britain's political establishment by hammering May's Brexit negotiation for being too weak with the EU and by praising rival Johnson as a "great" potential prime minister. Brexit is the most significant geopolitical move for the United Kingdom since World War Two and if it ever happens then London will be more reliant on the United States as ties loosen with the other 27 members of the EU. At a meeting with May, Trump will warn Britain that security cooperation could be hurt if London allows China's Huawei a role in building parts of the 5G network, the next generation of cellular technology. The Trump administration has told allies not to use its 5G technology and equipment because of fears it would allow China to spy on sensitive communications and data. Huawei denies it is, or could be, a vehicle for Chinese intelligence. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo told Britain last month it needed to change its attitude towards China and Huawei, casting the world's second largest economy as a threat to the West similar to that once posed by the Soviet Union. Britain's so-called special relationship with the United States is an enduring alliance, but some British voters see Trump as crude, volatile and opposed to their values on issues ranging from global warming to his treatment of women.

Very big trade deal possible, says Trump ahead of UK visit

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

This segment of WION brings to you top stories of the morning from across the globe. Watch this video to get updated with the latest information.

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning, June 3rd 2019

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-tells-uk-to-walk-away-if-eu-does-not-give-what-it-wants-in-brexit-report-223648">Trump tells UK to 'walk away' if EU does not give what it wants in Brexit: Report</a>

US President Donald Trump&nbsp;said Britain should refuse to pay its 39 billion pound EU divorce bill and "walk away" from<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-mps-vote-against-all-alternative-brexit-options-206122">&nbsp;Brexit&nbsp;</a>talks if Brussels does not give the UK what it wants.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-prepared-to-engage-with-iran-without-pre-conditions-pompeo-223645">US prepared to engage with Iran without pre-conditions: Pompeo</a>

The United States was prepared to engage with Iran without pre-conditions about its nuclear program but needed to see the country behaving like "a normal nation", US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Sunday.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-three-blasts-hit-kabul-killing-one-and-injuring-17-223589">Afghanistan: Three blasts hit Kabul, killing one and injuring 17</a>

One person was killed and 17 others wounded Sunday in three successive blasts in Kabul, Afghan officials said, capping a murderous week of mayhem across the city.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-defence-minister-says-tiananmen-crackdown-was-justified-223616">Chinese defence minister says Tiananmen crackdown was justified</a>

Chinese Defence Minister Wei Fenghe said on Sunday that the bloody crackdown on protesters around Beijing`s Tiananmen Square 30 years ago was the "correct" decision, citing the country`s "stability" since then.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-lodges-protest-against-harassment-of-guests-at-high-commissions-iftar-party-by-pakistan-agencies-in-islamabad-223652">India lodges protest against harassment of guests at high commission's Iftar party by Pakistan agencies in Islamabad</a>

India has strongly protested against the harassment of guests invited for the Iftar organised by Indian high commission at a hotel in Islamabad and has asked the Pakistani government to investigate the "ugly" incident.

Trump tells UK to 'walk away' if EU does not give what it wants in Brexit: Report US President Donald Trump said Britain should refuse to pay its 39 billion pound EU divorce bill and "walk away" from Brexit talks if Brussels does not give the UK what it wants.

Trump tells UK to 'walk away' if EU does not give what it wants in Brexit: Report US President Donald Trump said Britain should refuse to pay its 39 billion pound EU divorce bill and "walk away" from Brexit talks if Brussels does not give the UK what it wants. US prepared to engage with Iran without pre-conditions: Pompeo The United States was prepared to engage with Iran without pre-conditions about its nuclear program but needed to see the country behaving like "a normal nation", US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Sunday. Afghanistan: Three blasts hit Kabul, killing one and injuring 17 One person was killed and 17 others wounded Sunday in three successive blasts in Kabul, Afghan officials said, capping a murderous week of mayhem across the city. Chinese defence minister says Tiananmen crackdown was justified Chinese Defence Minister Wei Fenghe said on Sunday that the bloody crackdown on protesters around Beijing`s Tiananmen Square 30 years ago was the "correct" decision, citing the country`s "stability" since then. India lodges protest against harassment of guests at high commission's Iftar party by Pakistan agencies in Islamabad India has strongly protested against the harassment of guests invited for the Iftar organised by Indian high commission at a hotel in Islamabad and has asked the Pakistani government to investigate the "ugly" incident.

News brief: Big stories of the day

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-to-announce-second-term-run-at-june-florida-rally-223437">US President Donald Trump</a> said Britain should refuse to pay its 39 billion pound EU divorce bill and "walk away" from<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-mps-vote-against-all-alternative-brexit-options-206122"> Brexit </a>talks if Brussels does not give the UK what it wants.

In an interview with the Sunday Times newspaper ahead of his state visit to Britain starting Monday, Trump said the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-boris-johnson-would-be-very-good-as-next-uk-prime-minister-223289">next British leader</a> should send arch-Brexiteer Nigel Farage to conduct talks with the EU.

Trump said Britain must leave the EU this year.

“They've got to get it done,” he said. “They have got to get the deal closed.”

“If they don’t get what they want, I would walk away. If you don’t get a fair deal, you walk away.”

Trump repeated his backing for those candidates to succeed Prime Minister Theresa May who have said Britain must leave on the due date of Oct. 31 with or without a deal.

Those candidates include former foreign secretary Boris Johnson, whom Trump praised in an interview with the Sun newspaper on Friday, along with former Brexit minister Dominic Raab and interior minister Sajid Javid.

Trump also said it was a mistake for the Conservatives not to involve Farage, the Brexit Party leader, in negotiations with Brussels after his success in European Parliament elections last month.

“I like Nigel a lot. He has a lot to offer - he is a very smart person,” Trump said. “They won’t bring him in but think how well they would do if they did. They just haven't figured that out yet.”

On the Brexit divorce bill, Trump said, “If I were them, I wouldn’t pay 50 billion dollars. That is a tremendous number.”

Trump also said he would have “to know” veteran Socialist Labour opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn before authorising US intelligence to share its most sensitive secrets with a hard-left government.

He warned British ministers they must be careful not to jeopardize intelligence-sharing by letting Chinese firm Huawei Technologies Co Ltd into Britain’s new 5G mobile phone network.

US President Donald Trump said Britain should refuse to pay its 39 billion pound EU divorce bill and "walk away" from Brexit talks if Brussels does not give the UK what it wants.

US President Donald Trump said Britain should refuse to pay its 39 billion pound EU divorce bill and "walk away" from Brexit talks if Brussels does not give the UK what it wants. In an interview with the Sunday Times newspaper ahead of his state visit to Britain starting Monday, Trump said the next British leader should send arch-Brexiteer Nigel Farage to conduct talks with the EU. Trump said Britain must leave the EU this year. “They've got to get it done,” he said. “They have got to get the deal closed.” “If they don’t get what they want, I would walk away. If you don’t get a fair deal, you walk away.” Trump repeated his backing for those candidates to succeed Prime Minister Theresa May who have said Britain must leave on the due date of Oct. 31 with or without a deal. Those candidates include former foreign secretary Boris Johnson, whom Trump praised in an interview with the Sun newspaper on Friday, along with former Brexit minister Dominic Raab and interior minister Sajid Javid. Trump also said it was a mistake for the Conservatives not to involve Farage, the Brexit Party leader, in negotiations with Brussels after his success in European Parliament elections last month. “I like Nigel a lot. He has a lot to offer - he is a very smart person,” Trump said. “They won’t bring him in but think how well they would do if they did. They just haven't figured that out yet.” On the Brexit divorce bill, Trump said, “If I were them, I wouldn’t pay 50 billion dollars. That is a tremendous number.” Trump also said he would have “to know” veteran Socialist Labour opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn before authorising US intelligence to share its most sensitive secrets with a hard-left government. He warned British ministers they must be careful not to jeopardize intelligence-sharing by letting Chinese firm Huawei Technologies Co Ltd into Britain’s new 5G mobile phone network.

Trump tells UK to 'walk away' if EU does not give what it wants in Brexit: Report

The Cricket World Cup 2019 is underway, with the first match of the tournament going on at the Oval stadium between the hosts <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-cricket-world-cup-2019-match-1-england-vs-south-africa-222728">England and South Africa</a> today.&nbsp;

Under the bright London skies,&nbsp;Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May, who&nbsp;announced last week to quit as country's prime minister in the wake of the failure to get her Brexit deal passed.&nbsp;

Last week, May announced that&nbsp;on June 7 she would step down after three times failing to get her Brexit deal approved by parliament.&nbsp;

The European Union (EU), with whom Britain decided to sever ties in a referendum, has refused to accept May's deal and she now hopes a new prime minister will "take the process forward".&nbsp;

Now, free from the burden of trying to deliver Britain's exit from the EU, May decided to watch the inaugural match of the tournament.&nbsp;

During the match, She was captured&nbsp;applauding from the stands for Eoin Morgan-led England team.&nbsp;

May, who once likened her resolve to see her Brexit plan through to the determination of her cricket hero Geoffrey Boycott to get runs, has long been a lover of the sport.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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Free from Brexit burden, PM Theresa May heads to the cricket <a href="https://t.co/P4UVnAlqLl">https://t.co/P4UVnAlqLl</a> ⟶ via <a href="https://t.co/0I4IIflkwI">https://t.co/0I4IIflkwI</a> <a href="https://t.co/m8dgcbDYuA">pic.twitter.com/m8dgcbDYuA</a>
— Bitcoin Sportsbook 🥇 (@SportsbookBTC) <a href="https://twitter.com/SportsbookBTC/status/1134057012059230209?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 30, 2019</a></blockquote>
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In the match,&nbsp;South Africa's Faf Du Plessis, without injured pace bowler Dale Steyn, won the toss and opted to field.

"A 10.30am start at The Oval - if there's anything in the wicket, it'll be in the first hour," he said. "We've got some fantastic fast bowlers and we're hoping it'll be a great occasion today."

England skipper Eoin Morgan said,&nbsp;"We would have looked to do the same, just preferring chasing. The wicket looks really good."

The Cricket World Cup 2019 is underway, with the first match of the tournament going on at the Oval stadium between the hosts England and South Africa today. Under the bright London skies, Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May, who announced last week to quit as country's prime minister in the wake of the failure to get her Brexit deal passed.

The Cricket World Cup 2019 is underway, with the first match of the tournament going on at the Oval stadium between the hosts England and South Africa today. Under the bright London skies, Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May, who announced last week to quit as country's prime minister in the wake of the failure to get her Brexit deal passed. Last week, May announced that on June 7 she would step down after three times failing to get her Brexit deal approved by parliament. The European Union (EU), with whom Britain decided to sever ties in a referendum, has refused to accept May's deal and she now hopes a new prime minister will "take the process forward". Now, free from the burden of trying to deliver Britain's exit from the EU, May decided to watch the inaugural match of the tournament. During the match, She was captured applauding from the stands for Eoin Morgan-led England team. May, who once likened her resolve to see her Brexit plan through to the determination of her cricket hero Geoffrey Boycott to get runs, has long been a lover of the sport. Free from Brexit burden, PM Theresa May heads to the cricket https://t.co/P4UVnAlqLl ⟶ via https://t.co/0I4IIflkwI pic.twitter.com/m8dgcbDYuA — Bitcoin Sportsbook 🥇 (@SportsbookBTC) May 30, 2019 × In the match, South Africa's Faf Du Plessis, without injured pace bowler Dale Steyn, won the toss and opted to field. "A 10.30am start at The Oval - if there's anything in the wicket, it'll be in the first hour," he said. "We've got some fantastic fast bowlers and we're hoping it'll be a great occasion today." England skipper Eoin Morgan said, "We would have looked to do the same, just preferring chasing. The wicket looks really good."

Free from Brexit burden, PM Theresa May watches England vs South Africa World Cup match

British Prime Minister Theresa May told reporters that losses suffered by both Conservatives and Labour during European Parliament elections showed the importance of delivering on Brexit.

UK PM May's 'regret' over not delivering Brexit

Alastair Campbell has been expelled from the Labour Party. He defends his decision to vote Liberal Democrat by saying he believes he voted in the best interests of the Labour Party. Watch this video to know more.

UK: Labour party expels Alastair Campbell

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning, May 29th 2019

Britain's Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn is set to back a second referendum on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-mps-vote-against-all-alternative-brexit-options-206122">Brexit</a> and it could be within days, the Mirror newspaper reported late on Tuesday, citing senior figures of the party.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-election-disaster-britains-main-parties-to-offer-brexit-clarity-221998">After European election disaster, Britain's main parties to offer Brexit clarity</a>

Corbyn, who has so far said the option of a second referendum should be kept on the table, is under pressure to endorse one without qualification. The prospect poses a dilemma as many of the party`s supporters backed Brexit.

After being punished by voters in the European elections, which saw both pro-Brexit and pro-European Union parties surge at the expense of Labour and the governing Conservatives, Labour said a public vote was the way to reunite the country, but added this could also be a national election.

Corbyn himself on Monday had said that the British public should be asked again to give its verdict on Brexit, either through a general election or a second referendum.

"With the Conservatives disintegrating and unable to govern, and parliament deadlocked, this issue will have to go back to the people, whether through a general election or a public vote," Corbyn had said, adding the party would have discussions on the way forward.

Britain's Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn is set to back a second referendum on Brexit and it could be within days, the Mirror newspaper reported late on Tuesday, citing senior figures of the party.

Britain's Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn is set to back a second referendum on Brexit and it could be within days, the Mirror newspaper reported late on Tuesday, citing senior figures of the party. Also read: After European election disaster, Britain's main parties to offer Brexit clarity Corbyn, who has so far said the option of a second referendum should be kept on the table, is under pressure to endorse one without qualification. The prospect poses a dilemma as many of the party`s supporters backed Brexit. After being punished by voters in the European elections, which saw both pro-Brexit and pro-European Union parties surge at the expense of Labour and the governing Conservatives, Labour said a public vote was the way to reunite the country, but added this could also be a national election. Corbyn himself on Monday had said that the British public should be asked again to give its verdict on Brexit, either through a general election or a second referendum. "With the Conservatives disintegrating and unable to govern, and parliament deadlocked, this issue will have to go back to the people, whether through a general election or a public vote," Corbyn had said, adding the party would have discussions on the way forward.

British Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn set to back second Brexit referendum: Report

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 earlier this week announces her resignation from her post. The resignation is an outcome over the continues failures of The Brexit deal. But if she is resigning what will happen to Brexit then? Will the deal collapse and its an end to the chapter?

With May's exit, what happens to Brexit?

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No-deal Brexit is very much possible: European Union executive