Theresa May: A legacy sunk by Brexit

Who is Boris Johnson? Brexit warrior, Trump's friend & China's frenemy

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 - July 26th, 2019

Ireland's foreign minister, Simon Coveney, said new British Prime Minister <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/videos/boris-johnson-reshuffles-cabinet-brexit-loyalists-take-front-seats-238303&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj7mczc2NLjAhUWiXAKHVLAAMMQFjAIegQIBBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3rfEjC6AIX2EX6UwLc2YxP">Boris Johnson</a>'s approach to Brexit was "very unhelpful" and would block an agreement after Johnson rejected a key Irish demand his predecessor had agreed to.

Johnson told the British parliament on Thursday he wanted to abolish the backstop, an insurance policy designed to prevent the return of a hard border between Ireland and Northern Ireland in the event of longer-term trade talks collapsing.

Many Brexit supporters dislike the backstop - which would require Northern Ireland or the United Kingdom as a whole to stay in the European Union's customs union - as it would make it hard for Britain to negotiate free trade deals with other countries.

"The statements of the British prime minister yesterday in the House of Commons were very unhelpful to this process," Coveney told reporters on Friday after meeting Britain's new secretary of state for Northern Ireland in Belfast.

"He seems to have made a deliberate decision to set Britain on a collision course with the European Union and with Ireland in relation to the Brexit negotiations," Coveney added.

The backstop forms a part of a Brexit Withdrawal Agreement which Johnson's predecessor, Theresa May, negotiated with Brussels last year. Britain's parliament rejected the agreement three times, ultimately forcing May to resign.

The EU has said the backstop is essential for any transition deal and a precondition for talks on a longer-term trade agreement.

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"The approach that the British prime minister seems to now be taking is not going to be the basis of an agreement, and that's worrying for everybody," Coveney said.

Johnson has pledged to take Britain out of the EU on October&nbsp;31, even if it means leaving without a transition deal.

A no-deal Brexit risk bringing chaos at Britain's borders with Ireland and France if the EU reimposes customs checks.

Ireland's prime minister, Leo Varadkar, said on Thursday it was not yet clear whether Johnson had chosen to leave the EU without a deal, and that he hoped to meet Johnson soon.

Coveney said his meeting with Britain's new Northern Ireland secretary, Julian Smith, had been positive, and that he was optimistic political parties in the province would agree to form a government in the coming weeks.

Northern Ireland has been without a government since January 2017 following a rift between its two major parties.

Ireland's foreign minister, Simon Coveney, said new British Prime Minister Boris Johnson's approach to Brexit was "very unhelpful" and would block an agreement after Johnson rejected a key Irish demand his predecessor had agreed to.

Ireland's foreign minister, Simon Coveney, said new British Prime Minister Boris Johnson's approach to Brexit was "very unhelpful" and would block an agreement after Johnson rejected a key Irish demand his predecessor had agreed to. Johnson told the British parliament on Thursday he wanted to abolish the backstop, an insurance policy designed to prevent the return of a hard border between Ireland and Northern Ireland in the event of longer-term trade talks collapsing. Many Brexit supporters dislike the backstop - which would require Northern Ireland or the United Kingdom as a whole to stay in the European Union's customs union - as it would make it hard for Britain to negotiate free trade deals with other countries. "The statements of the British prime minister yesterday in the House of Commons were very unhelpful to this process," Coveney told reporters on Friday after meeting Britain's new secretary of state for Northern Ireland in Belfast. "He seems to have made a deliberate decision to set Britain on a collision course with the European Union and with Ireland in relation to the Brexit negotiations," Coveney added. The backstop forms a part of a Brexit Withdrawal Agreement which Johnson's predecessor, Theresa May, negotiated with Brussels last year. Britain's parliament rejected the agreement three times, ultimately forcing May to resign. The EU has said the backstop is essential for any transition deal and a precondition for talks on a longer-term trade agreement. WATCH: × "The approach that the British prime minister seems to now be taking is not going to be the basis of an agreement, and that's worrying for everybody," Coveney said. Johnson has pledged to take Britain out of the EU on October 31, even if it means leaving without a transition deal. A no-deal Brexit risk bringing chaos at Britain's borders with Ireland and France if the EU reimposes customs checks. Ireland's prime minister, Leo Varadkar, said on Thursday it was not yet clear whether Johnson had chosen to leave the EU without a deal, and that he hoped to meet Johnson soon. Coveney said his meeting with Britain's new Northern Ireland secretary, Julian Smith, had been positive, and that he was optimistic political parties in the province would agree to form a government in the coming weeks. Northern Ireland has been without a government since January 2017 following a rift between its two major parties.

Johnson 'very unhelpful' on Brexit, risks no deal: Ireland

&nbsp;British Prime Minister <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/videos/boris-johnson-reshuffles-cabinet-brexit-loyalists-take-front-seats-238303&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjA79O8ydLjAhUz7HMBHSBKC5kQFjACegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2lliv6xaVvzExtS1l5Xb8r">Boris Johnson</a> has suggested getting a dog for his Downing Street office to join current resident Larry the Cat.

Johnson took office earlier this week, walking through the black front door of Number 10 Downing Street for the first time after setting out a desire to defy his critics over <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-johnsons-backstop-elimination-unacceptable-eu-chief-brexit-negotiator-michel-barnier-238484&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjA79O8ydLjAhUz7HMBHSBKC5kQFjAIegQIBBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1Ur2IvhcbhgceNWXHYONZp">Brexit</a> and bring a decisive new leadership style to Britain's top job.

During an address to staff, he asked whether they would like a dog, a source with knowledge of the meeting said on Friday.

The staff replied with an enthusiastic "Yes".

Downing Street, the nerve centre of the British government for nearly 300 years, is already home to a brown and white tabby cat who carries the official title "Chief Mouser to the Cabinet Office".

Appointed in 2011, Larry has outlasted two former prime ministers: David Cameron and Theresa May.

He has become a celebrity in his own right, with an unofficial Twitter account that uses some of the thousands of pictures taken by press photographers documenting his comings, goings, and territorial scraps with other departmental cats.

The source said no firm decisions on a dog had been taken and declined to comment on possible living arrangements alongside Larry.

"You can consider it a longer-term project," the source said.

Larry appears to be taking the news in his stride. He was seen lying on a window ledge in Downing Street for most of the morning, according to a Reuters witness.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has suggested getting a dog for his Downing Street office to join current resident Larry the Cat. Johnson took office earlier this week, walking through the black front door of Number 10 Downing Street for the first time after setting out a desire to defy his critics over Brexit and bring a decisive new leadership style to Britain's top job.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has suggested getting a dog for his Downing Street office to join current resident Larry the Cat. Johnson took office earlier this week, walking through the black front door of Number 10 Downing Street for the first time after setting out a desire to defy his critics over Brexit and bring a decisive new leadership style to Britain's top job. During an address to staff, he asked whether they would like a dog, a source with knowledge of the meeting said on Friday. The staff replied with an enthusiastic "Yes". Downing Street, the nerve centre of the British government for nearly 300 years, is already home to a brown and white tabby cat who carries the official title "Chief Mouser to the Cabinet Office". Appointed in 2011, Larry has outlasted two former prime ministers: David Cameron and Theresa May. He has become a celebrity in his own right, with an unofficial Twitter account that uses some of the thousands of pictures taken by press photographers documenting his comings, goings, and territorial scraps with other departmental cats. The source said no firm decisions on a dog had been taken and declined to comment on possible living arrangements alongside Larry. "You can consider it a longer-term project," the source said. Larry appears to be taking the news in his stride. He was seen lying on a window ledge in Downing Street for most of the morning, according to a Reuters witness.

British PM Johnson eyes key appointment: A Downing Street dog

By Nicholas Allen

Boris Johnson has been confirmed as the Conservative Party’s new leader – and the UK’s next prime minister.

Johnson is the eighth post-war prime minister to take office midway through a parliament. The other eight premierships in that period began with victory in a general election.

There is nothing unusual in the mode of Johnson’s accession. The United Kingdom is a parliamentary system and governments derive their authority from being able to command the confidence of the House of Commons. There is no constitutional requirement for a new prime minister to have won an election.

Under the Fixed-term Parliaments Act 2011, the next election is not due until May 2022. Everyone at Westminster knows this. But constitutional reality will not prevent demands for an early general election and for Johnson to win the backing of the country.

The arguments are well rehearsed. Voters at the last election were choosing a different prime minister and expecting them to serve a full term. The new man wants to do things that were not set out in the party’s manifesto. There should be an election without delay.

Oddly enough, the new Conservative leader made exactly this argument in 2007, when Gordon Brown succeeded Tony Blair. Johnson was seemingly indignant about Brown’s apparent belief that he could “just trample on the democratic will of the British people”.

He is likely to be reminded of this repeatedly. But could he yet avoid similar criticisms by, like Theresa May in April 2017, suprisingly calling a snap election?

Of the seven post-war prime ministers before Johnson who took office midway through a parliament, almost all toyed with going straight to the country. But only one, Anthony Eden, went ahead and did so. He succeeded Winston Churchill in early April 1955 and won a comfortable parliamentary majority the following month.

Among the remaining six, only Theresa May sought an election very much sooner than was strictly necessary. Her decision to do so, nine months after succeeding David Cameron, caught everyone by surprise. Unfortunately for May, the Conservatives increased their share of the vote but squandered their majority.

The outcome of the June 2017 election is likely to weigh heavy on Johnson’s mind. But so too will the fate of other prime ministers who, having taken office, deferred their chance of going to the country.

Damned if you don’t?

Alec Douglas-Home, prime minister for just short of a year, lost the 1964 general election. James Callaghan, who could have called an election in the autumn of 1978 when Labour was ahead in the polls, ducked the chance. A no confidence vote in the House of Commons triggered the 1979 election, which was won by the Conservatives and Margaret Thatcher.

Brown similarly ducked an early election in the autumn of 2007. Having encouraged speculation, his decision not to go ahead contributed to a collapse in his authority. He went on to lose in 2010.

John Major fared better. He hoped that the passage of time would enable the Tories to recover from the Poll Tax debacle and Thatcher’s personal unpopularity. His strategy paid off with victory in 1992, albeit with a much reduced majority.

A summer vote? 
 
Recent newspaper reports suggest Johnson is gearing up for an election in the summer of 2020. The arguments for waiting at least a year are clear.

From his point of view, waiting will give him a chance to get a feel for the job. It will also give him a chance to experience the trappings of power. Becoming prime minister has been a lifelong ambition and Johnson will want to enjoy his prize.

From his party’s point of view, the polls currently don’t look good. Waiting would give the Tories time to see off the threat posed by the Brexit Party. Johnson has promised that the UK will leave the European Union at the end of October, with or without a deal. Once Britain is out, the Brexit Party will be redundant. Pro-Brexit voters, and their donations, might return in droves.

The time of year is a further argument against an immediate election. Party activists have planned their summer holidays. Many voters will be away. The disruption could be immense.

There is also the practical matter of securing an early election. Before the Fixed-term Parliaments Act, prime ministers could simply ask the Queen to dissolve parliament. Now they must secure the backing of at least two-thirds of all MPs or else engineer a successful vote of no confidence, ensuring there is no viable alternative government. Johnson will become prime minister on the day before parliament rises for its summer recess. There would be little time to act.

But there are also arguments for not waiting. Seeking an immediate election would enable Johnson to define himself as a leader with “gumption”, someone who is willing to take chances to break the present deadlock over Brexit. It would enable him to fend off talk of missing mandates and to avoid the charge of hypocrisy given his criticism of Brown back in 2007.

Seeking an immediate election could even counter the threat of a no confidence vote in the House of Commons. If only a handful of Tory MPs opposed to a no-deal Brexit defect to the Liberal Democrats, Johnson will have no majority, even with the DUP’s support.

Moreover, the arrival of a new prime minister tends to give his or her party a bounce in the polls. Labour, which has its own troubles, would be caught on the hop. And Johnson would start an election off the back of his leadership campaign. He would be warmed up for the fight.

If the Conservatives were to win a snap election, Johnson would have a mandate for his vision of Brexit. His personal authority would be very great. This would matter enormously if it were necessary for him to accept some kind of compromise with the EU before October. It would be equally important if Britain were to leave the EU without a deal.

Of course, any prospect of winning would hinge on Johnson being able to persuade a large number of people presently backing the Brexit Party to support him. Like so much in British politics at present, Johnson’s confidence in his ability to persuade is a matter of pure speculation.

Indeed, any talk of early elections is necessarily speculative. As Thatcher wrote in her memoirs: “Calling an election is a big decision, and by constitutional convention is a matter for the prime minister alone.” Only Johnson knows his own mind – and maybe not even he. 
 
(Nicholas Allen is Reader in Politics, Royal Holloway) 
 
(This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/will-boris-johnson-call-an-early-election-what-new-prime-minister-will-be-thinking-as-he-weighs-up-whether-to-take-the-plunge-120702">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp;

By Nicholas Allen Boris Johnson has been confirmed as the Conservative Party’s new leader – and the UK’s next prime minister. Johnson is the eighth post-war prime minister to take office midway through a parliament.

By Nicholas Allen Boris Johnson has been confirmed as the Conservative Party’s new leader – and the UK’s next prime minister. Johnson is the eighth post-war prime minister to take office midway through a parliament. The other eight premierships in that period began with victory in a general election. There is nothing unusual in the mode of Johnson’s accession. The United Kingdom is a parliamentary system and governments derive their authority from being able to command the confidence of the House of Commons. There is no constitutional requirement for a new prime minister to have won an election. Under the Fixed-term Parliaments Act 2011, the next election is not due until May 2022. Everyone at Westminster knows this. But constitutional reality will not prevent demands for an early general election and for Johnson to win the backing of the country. The arguments are well rehearsed. Voters at the last election were choosing a different prime minister and expecting them to serve a full term. The new man wants to do things that were not set out in the party’s manifesto. There should be an election without delay. Oddly enough, the new Conservative leader made exactly this argument in 2007, when Gordon Brown succeeded Tony Blair. Johnson was seemingly indignant about Brown’s apparent belief that he could “just trample on the democratic will of the British people”. He is likely to be reminded of this repeatedly. But could he yet avoid similar criticisms by, like Theresa May in April 2017, suprisingly calling a snap election? Of the seven post-war prime ministers before Johnson who took office midway through a parliament, almost all toyed with going straight to the country. But only one, Anthony Eden, went ahead and did so. He succeeded Winston Churchill in early April 1955 and won a comfortable parliamentary majority the following month. Among the remaining six, only Theresa May sought an election very much sooner than was strictly necessary. Her decision to do so, nine months after succeeding David Cameron, caught everyone by surprise. Unfortunately for May, the Conservatives increased their share of the vote but squandered their majority. The outcome of the June 2017 election is likely to weigh heavy on Johnson’s mind. But so too will the fate of other prime ministers who, having taken office, deferred their chance of going to the country. Damned if you don’t? Alec Douglas-Home, prime minister for just short of a year, lost the 1964 general election. James Callaghan, who could have called an election in the autumn of 1978 when Labour was ahead in the polls, ducked the chance. A no confidence vote in the House of Commons triggered the 1979 election, which was won by the Conservatives and Margaret Thatcher. Brown similarly ducked an early election in the autumn of 2007. Having encouraged speculation, his decision not to go ahead contributed to a collapse in his authority. He went on to lose in 2010. John Major fared better. He hoped that the passage of time would enable the Tories to recover from the Poll Tax debacle and Thatcher’s personal unpopularity. His strategy paid off with victory in 1992, albeit with a much reduced majority. A summer vote? Recent newspaper reports suggest Johnson is gearing up for an election in the summer of 2020. The arguments for waiting at least a year are clear. From his point of view, waiting will give him a chance to get a feel for the job. It will also give him a chance to experience the trappings of power. Becoming prime minister has been a lifelong ambition and Johnson will want to enjoy his prize. From his party’s point of view, the polls currently don’t look good. Waiting would give the Tories time to see off the threat posed by the Brexit Party. Johnson has promised that the UK will leave the European Union at the end of October, with or without a deal. Once Britain is out, the Brexit Party will be redundant. Pro-Brexit voters, and their donations, might return in droves. The time of year is a further argument against an immediate election. Party activists have planned their summer holidays. Many voters will be away. The disruption could be immense. There is also the practical matter of securing an early election. Before the Fixed-term Parliaments Act, prime ministers could simply ask the Queen to dissolve parliament. Now they must secure the backing of at least two-thirds of all MPs or else engineer a successful vote of no confidence, ensuring there is no viable alternative government. Johnson will become prime minister on the day before parliament rises for its summer recess. There would be little time to act. But there are also arguments for not waiting. Seeking an immediate election would enable Johnson to define himself as a leader with “gumption”, someone who is willing to take chances to break the present deadlock over Brexit. It would enable him to fend off talk of missing mandates and to avoid the charge of hypocrisy given his criticism of Brown back in 2007. Seeking an immediate election could even counter the threat of a no confidence vote in the House of Commons. If only a handful of Tory MPs opposed to a no-deal Brexit defect to the Liberal Democrats, Johnson will have no majority, even with the DUP’s support. Moreover, the arrival of a new prime minister tends to give his or her party a bounce in the polls. Labour, which has its own troubles, would be caught on the hop. And Johnson would start an election off the back of his leadership campaign. He would be warmed up for the fight. If the Conservatives were to win a snap election, Johnson would have a mandate for his vision of Brexit. His personal authority would be very great. This would matter enormously if it were necessary for him to accept some kind of compromise with the EU before October. It would be equally important if Britain were to leave the EU without a deal. Of course, any prospect of winning would hinge on Johnson being able to persuade a large number of people presently backing the Brexit Party to support him. Like so much in British politics at present, Johnson’s confidence in his ability to persuade is a matter of pure speculation. Indeed, any talk of early elections is necessarily speculative. As Thatcher wrote in her memoirs: “Calling an election is a big decision, and by constitutional convention is a matter for the prime minister alone.” Only Johnson knows his own mind – and maybe not even he. (Nicholas Allen is Reader in Politics, Royal Holloway) (This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Will new UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson call an early election?

Hundreds of demonstrators gathered in central London on July 24 to protest against Britain's newly appointed Prime Minister Boris Johnson. Watch this video to know more.

Protests against UK PM Boris Johnson, protesters reject new UK PM

The newly-elected Conservative Party leader Boris Johnson took office as the British prime minister on Wednesday. Britain's Prime Minister Boris Johnson appointed a band of Brexiteers into key cabinet positions. Watch this video to know more.

Boris Johnson reshuffles cabinet, Brexit loyalists take front seats

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - July 25th, 2019

The newly-elected Conservative Party leader Boris Johnson took office as the British prime minister on Wednesday amid the rising uncertainties of Brexit. Watch this video to know more.

Boris Johnson delivers first speech as UK PM

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-pm-johnson-overhauls-cabinet-with-brexit-hardliners-238286">British Prime Minister Boris Johnson</a> will meet his Brexiteer-dominated team of senior ministers for the first time on Thursday to plot how to persuade the European Union to agree to a new Brexit deal ahead of the Oct. 31 exit deadline.

Johnson's dramatic rise to Britain's top job sets the world's fifth-largest economy up for a showdown with the EU and a potential constitutional crisis or election at home, as lawmakers have vowed to thwart a no-deal Brexit.

Britain's new leader promised to do a new Brexit deal with the bloc within less than 99 days but warned that if EU leaders refused what he termed a "remote possibility" then Britain would leave without a deal, "no ifs or buts".

"I am convinced that we can do a deal," Johnson, 55, said on arrival No. 10 Downing Street, the premier's official residence, after meeting Queen Elizabeth who requested he form a government.

Johnson bets that the threat of a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uks-liberal-democrats-elect-first-female-leader-jo-swinson-to-stop-brexit-237771">no-deal Brexit</a> will persuade the EU's biggest powers Germany and France to agree to revise the divorce deal that former Prime Minister Theresa May agreed to last November but failed to ratify.

The EU has so far repeatedly refused to countenance rewriting the Withdrawal Agreement part of the divorce deal but has said it could change the so-called "Political Declaration" on future ties.

The bloc has congratulated Johnson on his victory but was firm that it would not offer Britain better departure terms.

Sweeping Cull

Johnson, whose sported a sometimes shambolic persona in his rise to power, showed mettle in office, sweeping away his predecessor's government in one of the biggest culls of senior government jobs in recent British history.

"Night of the Blond Knives," said The Sun, Britain's most-read newspaper, about the colour of Johnson's dishevelled mop of hair. A total of 17 ministers in May's government either resigned or were sacked, creating a powerful new group of enemies in parliament.

Most of Johnson's senior appointees are Brexit supporters.

Sajid Javid, 49, was named as his finance minister. He is a eurosceptic who voted to remain in the 2016 referendum.

Others are avowed Brexiteers: Priti Patel was appointed interior minister, Dominic Raab was appointed foreign minister and Stephen Barclay remained as Brexit minister.

Johnson also appointed Dominic Cummings, the campaign director of the official Brexit Vote Leave campaign, as a senior adviser in Downing Street.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson will meet his Brexiteer-dominated team of senior ministers for the first time on Thursday to plot how to persuade the European Union to agree to a new Brexit deal ahead of the Oct.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson will meet his Brexiteer-dominated team of senior ministers for the first time on Thursday to plot how to persuade the European Union to agree to a new Brexit deal ahead of the Oct. 31 exit deadline. Johnson's dramatic rise to Britain's top job sets the world's fifth-largest economy up for a showdown with the EU and a potential constitutional crisis or election at home, as lawmakers have vowed to thwart a no-deal Brexit. Britain's new leader promised to do a new Brexit deal with the bloc within less than 99 days but warned that if EU leaders refused what he termed a "remote possibility" then Britain would leave without a deal, "no ifs or buts". "I am convinced that we can do a deal," Johnson, 55, said on arrival No. 10 Downing Street, the premier's official residence, after meeting Queen Elizabeth who requested he form a government. Johnson bets that the threat of a no-deal Brexit will persuade the EU's biggest powers Germany and France to agree to revise the divorce deal that former Prime Minister Theresa May agreed to last November but failed to ratify. The EU has so far repeatedly refused to countenance rewriting the Withdrawal Agreement part of the divorce deal but has said it could change the so-called "Political Declaration" on future ties. The bloc has congratulated Johnson on his victory but was firm that it would not offer Britain better departure terms. Sweeping Cull Johnson, whose sported a sometimes shambolic persona in his rise to power, showed mettle in office, sweeping away his predecessor's government in one of the biggest culls of senior government jobs in recent British history. "Night of the Blond Knives," said The Sun, Britain's most-read newspaper, about the colour of Johnson's dishevelled mop of hair. A total of 17 ministers in May's government either resigned or were sacked, creating a powerful new group of enemies in parliament. Most of Johnson's senior appointees are Brexit supporters. Sajid Javid, 49, was named as his finance minister. He is a eurosceptic who voted to remain in the 2016 referendum. Others are avowed Brexiteers: Priti Patel was appointed interior minister, Dominic Raab was appointed foreign minister and Stephen Barclay remained as Brexit minister. Johnson also appointed Dominic Cummings, the campaign director of the official Brexit Vote Leave campaign, as a senior adviser in Downing Street.

British PM Boris Johnson's top team meet to plot Brexit gambit

Boris Johnson wins the tory leadership race. Johnson will succeed Theresa May as UK's PM. US President Donald Trump congratulated Johnson for the win. Watch this video to know more.

Donald Trump: They call Johnson 'Britain-Trump'

Boris Johnson wins the tory leadership race. Johnson will succeed Theresa May as UK's PM. Controversial Tory leader, Brexit Cheerleader and former Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson will take over from Theresa May as the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. Johnson defeated his rival Jeremy Hunt.

Boris Johnson to succeed Theresa May as new UK PM

What drove Boris Johnson to the top?

"Let's get going now," Johnson says, listing a number of technological accomplishments he wants to achieve addressing the media after taking over as the UK PM. Watch full video to know more.

Boris Johnson delivers first speech as UK Prime Minister

Watch: Newly-elected British PM Boris Johnson arrives at Buckingham Palace to meet Queen Elizabeth II and officially taking over office from Theresa May. Watch full video to know more.

Newly elected UK PM Boris Johnson arrives at Buckingham Palace to meet Queen

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - July 24th, 2019

Soon after outgoing Prime Minister Theresa May submitted her<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-pm-theresa-may-tenders-her-resignation-to-queen-elizabeth-238237"> resignation letter to Queen Elizabeth</a>, Boris Johnson arrived at Buckingham Palace to take over as the new prime minister of Britain.

Boris Johnson, 55, officially became Britain's new prime minister on Wednesday after a meeting with Queen Elizabeth II, Buckingham Palace said in a statement.

A picture released by the Palace showed Johnson shaking hands with Queen Elizabeth II and bowing.

Johnson is the 14th British prime minister to serve under Queen Elizabeth II.

Boris Johnson began putting together his top team as he prepared to take over as Britain's prime minister on Wednesday, on a mission to deliver Brexit by October 31 by any means necessary.

The former London mayor, a divisive figure best known for his gaffes and rhetorical flourishes, was elected on Tuesday by members of the governing Conservative party to be their next leader.

Ahead of May's resignation, a raft of her pro-EU ministers stepped down before Johnson takes over.

Finance minister Philip Hammond, who has promised to resist any attempts to force through a no-deal Brexit, said the new prime minister should be free to choose someone who was "fully aligned" with his views.

Justice secretary David Gauke and international development secretary Rory Stewart also stepped down. 
&nbsp;

Soon after outgoing Prime Minister Theresa May submitted her resignation letter to Queen Elizabeth, Boris Johnson arrived at Buckingham Palace to take over as the new prime minister of Britain.

Soon after outgoing Prime Minister Theresa May submitted her resignation letter to Queen Elizabeth, Boris Johnson arrived at Buckingham Palace to take over as the new prime minister of Britain. Boris Johnson, 55, officially became Britain's new prime minister on Wednesday after a meeting with Queen Elizabeth II, Buckingham Palace said in a statement. A picture released by the Palace showed Johnson shaking hands with Queen Elizabeth II and bowing. Johnson is the 14th British prime minister to serve under Queen Elizabeth II. Boris Johnson began putting together his top team as he prepared to take over as Britain's prime minister on Wednesday, on a mission to deliver Brexit by October 31 by any means necessary. The former London mayor, a divisive figure best known for his gaffes and rhetorical flourishes, was elected on Tuesday by members of the governing Conservative party to be their next leader. Ahead of May's resignation, a raft of her pro-EU ministers stepped down before Johnson takes over. Finance minister Philip Hammond, who has promised to resist any attempts to force through a no-deal Brexit, said the new prime minister should be free to choose someone who was "fully aligned" with his views. Justice secretary David Gauke and international development secretary Rory Stewart also stepped down.

Boris Johnson meets Queen Elizabeth, takes charge as new British PM

Ivanka Trump, White House advisor and daughter of U.S. President Donald Trump, she tweeted her congratulations to Boris Johnson on becoming the next prime minister of the "United Kingston". US President Donald Trump later deleted the tweet, replacing it with the correct spelling of the United Kingdom. Watch this video to know more.

Ivanka Trump congratulates next PM of United 'Kingston'

The British pound rose Wednesday before arch-Brexiteer <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/stepping-into-power-britains-johnson-seeks-more-diverse-cabinet-238044&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjy6pLQ0s3jAhUfTI8KHf_NDzkQFjACegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1aKsCfuUnZh-SA_i3kYGPM">Boris Johnson</a> took over as prime minister, while European stocks mostly fell on the weak mining sector.

Sterling gained versus the euro and dollar as traders readied for Johnson - a leading Leave campaigner in Britain's shock Brexit referendum three years ago -&nbsp;to take the reins from outgoing premier Theresa May.

He will be appointed later Wednesday by Queen Elizabeth II at Buckingham Palace.

Sterling had already rallied Tuesday in reaction to Johnson's election as Conservative Party leader, with investors keen to see whether he pushes ahead with a no-deal divorce from the European Union at the end of October.

Brexit scepticism 'priced in' 
"The pound is beginning to stabilise, proving that a lot of the scepticism about Boris Johnson's Brexit policy was already built into the price," said City Index analyst Fiona Cincotta.

"Sterling is trading a touch higher this morning," she noted.

May resigned after failing to get parliamentary support for a Brexit deal she had struck with EU leaders.

Meanwhile, Europe's major stock markets mostly fell, with miners weighed down by sliding iron ore prices, dealers said.

Heading towards midday, London's FTSE 100 was sharply down by 0.9 percent.

In the eurozone, Paris CAC 40 fell 0.5 percent but Frankfurt's DAX 30 won 0.3 percent in value.

"The FTSE 100 is firmly in the red as mining stocks are weighing on the index," said CMC Markets analyst David Madden.

"A sell-off in iron ore prices in China has prompted a decline in major mining stocks like Rio Tinto, BHP Billiton, and Glencore.

"Brazil's Vale won approval to restart iron ore production, and that triggered the drop in iron ore prices."

Bright US earnings&nbsp; 
Most Asian markets enjoyed another day of gains, with support coming from more healthy earnings results and renewed hopes for a resolution of the China-US trade war.

The latest big-name firms to post positive results were Coca-Cola, toymaker Hasbro, and Harley-Davidson, helping all three main indexes on Wall Street end with sharp gains overnight.

Adding to the upbeat mood were reports that US President <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/they-call-him-britains-trump-says-us-president-on-boris-johnson-238131&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiCp6Hp2s3jAhUHl48KHdVmDmIQFjAFegQIBRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2zLPu250tzoQ1f2Gfdrz-b">Donald Trump</a>'s Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer will lead a delegation to China next week to resume trade talks.

The meeting would be the first head-to-head talks since negotiations were cut short in May by Trump's surprise decision to hit China with more tariffs for what he called Beijing's backsliding.

The British pound rose Wednesday before arch-Brexiteer Boris Johnson took over as prime minister, while European stocks mostly fell on the weak mining sector. Sterling gained versus the euro and dollar as traders readied for Johnson - a leading Leave campaigner in Britain's shock Brexit referendum three years ago - to take the reins from outgoing premier Theresa May.

The British pound rose Wednesday before arch-Brexiteer Boris Johnson took over as prime minister, while European stocks mostly fell on the weak mining sector. Sterling gained versus the euro and dollar as traders readied for Johnson - a leading Leave campaigner in Britain's shock Brexit referendum three years ago - to take the reins from outgoing premier Theresa May. He will be appointed later Wednesday by Queen Elizabeth II at Buckingham Palace. Sterling had already rallied Tuesday in reaction to Johnson's election as Conservative Party leader, with investors keen to see whether he pushes ahead with a no-deal divorce from the European Union at the end of October. Brexit scepticism 'priced in' "The pound is beginning to stabilise, proving that a lot of the scepticism about Boris Johnson's Brexit policy was already built into the price," said City Index analyst Fiona Cincotta. "Sterling is trading a touch higher this morning," she noted. May resigned after failing to get parliamentary support for a Brexit deal she had struck with EU leaders. Meanwhile, Europe's major stock markets mostly fell, with miners weighed down by sliding iron ore prices, dealers said. Heading towards midday, London's FTSE 100 was sharply down by 0.9 percent. In the eurozone, Paris CAC 40 fell 0.5 percent but Frankfurt's DAX 30 won 0.3 percent in value. "The FTSE 100 is firmly in the red as mining stocks are weighing on the index," said CMC Markets analyst David Madden. "A sell-off in iron ore prices in China has prompted a decline in major mining stocks like Rio Tinto, BHP Billiton, and Glencore. "Brazil's Vale won approval to restart iron ore production, and that triggered the drop in iron ore prices." Bright US earnings Most Asian markets enjoyed another day of gains, with support coming from more healthy earnings results and renewed hopes for a resolution of the China-US trade war. The latest big-name firms to post positive results were Coca-Cola, toymaker Hasbro, and Harley-Davidson, helping all three main indexes on Wall Street end with sharp gains overnight. Adding to the upbeat mood were reports that US President Donald Trump's Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer will lead a delegation to China next week to resume trade talks. The meeting would be the first head-to-head talks since negotiations were cut short in May by Trump's surprise decision to hit China with more tariffs for what he called Beijing's backsliding.

Sterling rises before Johnson takes office; European markets sag

Theresa May left 10 Downing Street for the last time and handed her resignation letter to Queen Elizabeth at Buckingham Palace paving the way for Boris Johnson to take over as the new prime minister of Britain.

May arrived at Buckingham Palace after earlier urging Johnson to deliver Brexit "in a way that works for the whole United Kingdom".

May said delivering on Brexit was an "immediate priority".

The outgoing prime minister had earlier taken questions from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pleased-to-hand-over-charge-to-boris-johnson-says-theresa-may-in-british-parliament-238188">British MPs in her last PMQs</a> which ended in a tussle between her and Jeremy Corbyn over Brexit.

Corbyn said he hoped May will have "marginally more" relaxing time as a backbencher.

May, however, hit back saying Corbyn played "dirty politics" asserting "you should be ashamed".

Theresa May said "perhaps it's time" for labour leader Jeremy Corbyn to do the same as her and step down.

May said she was "pleased to hand over to Johnson".&nbsp;

Theresa May left 10 Downing Street for the last time and handed her resignation letter to Queen Elizabeth at Buckingham Palace paving the way for Boris Johnson to take over as the new prime minister of Britain.

Theresa May left 10 Downing Street for the last time and handed her resignation letter to Queen Elizabeth at Buckingham Palace paving the way for Boris Johnson to take over as the new prime minister of Britain. May arrived at Buckingham Palace after earlier urging Johnson to deliver Brexit "in a way that works for the whole United Kingdom". May said delivering on Brexit was an "immediate priority". The outgoing prime minister had earlier taken questions from British MPs in her last PMQs which ended in a tussle between her and Jeremy Corbyn over Brexit. Corbyn said he hoped May will have "marginally more" relaxing time as a backbencher. May, however, hit back saying Corbyn played "dirty politics" asserting "you should be ashamed". Theresa May said "perhaps it's time" for labour leader Jeremy Corbyn to do the same as her and step down. May said she was "pleased to hand over to Johnson".

British PM Theresa May tenders her resignation to Queen Elizabeth

Outgoing British Prime Minister Theresa May issued a parting shot to opposition Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn on Wednesday, using her final weekly parliamentary question session to suggest he follow her lead and quit his job. May, who will officially hand over to her successor Boris Johnson later on Wednesday, is stepping down after just over three years in the job, having failed to deliver Britain's exit from the European Union.

British PM May's parting shot for Labour's Corbyn: your time is up

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajya-sabha-passes-national-investigation-agency-amendment-bill-236691">US regulator imposes $5 billion fine on Facebook over privacy probe</a>

The US government today imposed $5 billion fine on&nbsp;Facebook&nbsp;as part of its privacy probe. Despite repeated promises to its billions of users worldwide that they could control how their personal information is shared, Facebook undermined consumers' choices," FTC chairman Joe Simons said in a statement.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pleased-to-hand-over-charge-to-boris-johnson-says-theresa-may-in-british-parliament-238188">Pleased to hand over charge to Boris Johnson, says Theresa May in British Parliament</a>

Outgoing British PM Theresa May took her questions from MPs for the last time&nbsp;in House of Commons&nbsp;ahead of submitting her resignation to the Queen on Wednesday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ready-for-negotiations-but-will-not-surrender-rouhani-on-standoff-with-us-238156">Ready for negotiations but will not surrender: Rouhani on standoff with US</a>

Iran is ready for "just" negotiations but not if they mean surrender, Iran's President Hassan Rouhani&nbsp;said on Wednesday, without saying what talks he had in mind.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-court-extends-hafiz-saeeds-judicial-remand-for-14-more-days-238155">Pakistan court extends Hafiz Saeed's judicial remand for 14 more days</a>

26/11 Mumbai terror attack mastermind and head of Jamaat-ud-Dawa Saeed was arrested by Pakistan’s Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) on July 17 in connection with charges related to terror financing.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-passes-unlawful-activities-prevention-amendment-bill-238169">Lok Sabha passes Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Amendment Bill</a>

The Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Amendment Bill was passed in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday after a heated debate.&nbsp;During a discussion on the Bill, Home Minister Amit Shah said tough laws were required to end terrorism and asserted that the amendment does not encroach on powers of states.

&nbsp;

US regulator imposes $5 billion fine on Facebook over privacy probe The US government today imposed $5 billion fine on Facebook as part of its privacy probe. Despite repeated promises to its billions of users worldwide that they could control how their personal information is shared, Facebook undermined consumers' choices," FTC chairman Joe Simons said in a statement.

US regulator imposes $5 billion fine on Facebook over privacy probe The US government today imposed $5 billion fine on Facebook as part of its privacy probe. Despite repeated promises to its billions of users worldwide that they could control how their personal information is shared, Facebook undermined consumers' choices," FTC chairman Joe Simons said in a statement. Pleased to hand over charge to Boris Johnson, says Theresa May in British Parliament Outgoing British PM Theresa May took her questions from MPs for the last time in House of Commons ahead of submitting her resignation to the Queen on Wednesday. Ready for negotiations but will not surrender: Rouhani on standoff with US Iran is ready for "just" negotiations but not if they mean surrender, Iran's President Hassan Rouhani said on Wednesday, without saying what talks he had in mind. Pakistan court extends Hafiz Saeed's judicial remand for 14 more days 26/11 Mumbai terror attack mastermind and head of Jamaat-ud-Dawa Saeed was arrested by Pakistan’s Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) on July 17 in connection with charges related to terror financing. Lok Sabha passes Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Amendment Bill The Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Amendment Bill was passed in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday after a heated debate. During a discussion on the Bill, Home Minister Amit Shah said tough laws were required to end terrorism and asserted that the amendment does not encroach on powers of states.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Theresa May is taking MPs' questions for the final time before Boris Johnson becomes prime minister. Watch full video to know more. #UKParliament #TheresaMayStepsDown #NewUKPM

Theresa May holds last PMQs before Boris Johnson becomes PM

Iran does not seek confrontation with Britain amid a row over seized tanker ships, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-zarif-calls-for-prudence-and-foresight-as-tensions-mount-with-uk-237486">Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif</a> said Monday in a message directed at likely incoming premier Boris Johnson.

"It is very important for Boris Johnson as he enters 10 Downing Street to understand that Iran does not seek confrontation, that Iran wants normal relations based on mutual respect," Zarif told reporters in Managua.

Zarif was responding to a question about whether he had a message for Johnson, the favourite to be named the new leader of Britain's Tory party on Tuesday, who would then take over from Theresa May as Prime Minister on Wednesday.

Britain has demanded that Iran release a UK-flagged tanker seized in the Gulf on Friday.

That came two weeks after British authorities seized an Iranian tanker off Gibraltar on suspicion of it breaching sanctions against Syria.

Zarif claimed that move by Britain was orchestrated by the United States, whose <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-defiant-as-lawmakers-blast-his-racist-attacks-on-four-congresswomen-236257">President Donald Trump</a> on Monday blasted the Islamic republic as the world's top "state of terror."

"It was clear from the very beginning that the United Kingdom was doing the bidding for the Trump administration," said Zarif.

"What the Brits did and what the Gibraltar authorities did in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gibraltar-court-extends-detention-of-iran-tanker-for-30-days-britain-237138">Strait of Gibraltar</a> was a violation of international law. It was piracy."

British Foreign Minister Jeremy Hunt, the man fighting Johnson to be the next British PM, said at the weekend that London wanted to "de-escalate" tensions with Iran but insisted that the Grace 1 tanker was seized because "it was carrying oil, against EU sanctions, to Syria."

Zarif described those allegations as "unfounded" and accused the British of acting "holier than the Pope" in applying rules the "EU itself would not do."

"Everybody understands that starting a conflict may be easy, but ending it would be impossible," he said.

Hunt told the British parliament Monday he would seek to "put together a European-led maritime protection mission" for Gulf shipping.

Zarif arrived in Nicaragua on Sunday following a meeting in Venezuela of the Non-Aligned Movement.

Like Iran, the governments of Venezuela and Nicaragua are subject to US sanctions.

Iran does not seek confrontation with Britain amid a row over seized tanker ships, Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said Monday in a message directed at likely incoming premier Boris Johnson.

Iran does not seek confrontation with Britain amid a row over seized tanker ships, Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said Monday in a message directed at likely incoming premier Boris Johnson. "It is very important for Boris Johnson as he enters 10 Downing Street to understand that Iran does not seek confrontation, that Iran wants normal relations based on mutual respect," Zarif told reporters in Managua. Zarif was responding to a question about whether he had a message for Johnson, the favourite to be named the new leader of Britain's Tory party on Tuesday, who would then take over from Theresa May as Prime Minister on Wednesday. Britain has demanded that Iran release a UK-flagged tanker seized in the Gulf on Friday. That came two weeks after British authorities seized an Iranian tanker off Gibraltar on suspicion of it breaching sanctions against Syria. Zarif claimed that move by Britain was orchestrated by the United States, whose President Donald Trump on Monday blasted the Islamic republic as the world's top "state of terror." "It was clear from the very beginning that the United Kingdom was doing the bidding for the Trump administration," said Zarif. "What the Brits did and what the Gibraltar authorities did in the Strait of Gibraltar was a violation of international law. It was piracy." British Foreign Minister Jeremy Hunt, the man fighting Johnson to be the next British PM, said at the weekend that London wanted to "de-escalate" tensions with Iran but insisted that the Grace 1 tanker was seized because "it was carrying oil, against EU sanctions, to Syria." Zarif described those allegations as "unfounded" and accused the British of acting "holier than the Pope" in applying rules the "EU itself would not do." "Everybody understands that starting a conflict may be easy, but ending it would be impossible," he said. Hunt told the British parliament Monday he would seek to "put together a European-led maritime protection mission" for Gulf shipping. Zarif arrived in Nicaragua on Sunday following a meeting in Venezuela of the Non-Aligned Movement. Like Iran, the governments of Venezuela and Nicaragua are subject to US sanctions.

Iran 'does not seek confrontation,' says Foreign Minister Javad Zarif after tanker seizure

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boris-johnsons-stance-on-iran-trump-huawei-and-the-economy-237951">Boris Johnson</a>, the Brexiteer who has promised to lead Britain out of the European Union with or without a deal by the end of October, will replace Theresa May as prime minister after winning the leadership of the Conservative Party on Tuesday.

His convincing victory catapults the United Kingdom towards a showdown with the EU and towards a constitutional crisis at home, as British lawmakers have vowed to bring down any government that tries to leave the bloc without a divorce deal.

Johnson, the face of the 2016 Brexit referendum, won the votes of 92,153 members of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boris-johnson-wins-conservative-party-leadership-race-set-to-become-uk-pm-237941">Conservative party</a>, almost twice the 46,656 won by his rival, Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt.

May will leave office on Wednesday after going to Buckingham Palace to see Queen Elizabeth, who will formally appoint Johnson before he enters Downing Street.

"We are going to get Brexit done on Oct. 31, and we are going to take advantage of all the opportunities it will bring in a new spirit of 'can do'," Johnson, 55, said after the result was announced.

"Like some slumbering giant, we are going to rise and ping off the guy-ropes of self-doubt and negativity."

Johnson said the mantra of his leadership campaign had been to "deliver Brexit, unite the country and defeat (opposition Labour leader) Jeremy Corbyn and that is what we are going to do".

Within half an hour of his victory, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/congratulations-to-boris-johnson-on-becoming-the-new-pm-of-uk-he-will-be-great-donald-trump-237983">US President Donald Trum</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boris-johnson-a-divisive-politician-with-do-or-die-pledge-over-brexit-237944">p</a> had tweeted his congratulations, adding: "He will be great!".

The men have recently been complimentary about each other yet Trump is one of the many world leaders, including Russian President Vladimir Putin and Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan, about whom Johnson has previously made derogatory remarks. In 2015, he accused Trump, then a candidate for office, of "stupefying ignorance" that made him unfit to be president.

The victory for one of Britain's most flamboyant politicians places an avowed Brexit supporter in charge of the government for the first time since the United Kingdom voted to leave the EU in the shock 2016 referendum.

But Johnson is known for his ambition, untidy blond hair, flowery oratory and cursory command of policy detail takes office at one of the most tumultuous junctures in post-World War Two British history.

The pound has fallen sharply in recent weeks on fears of a no-deal Brexit, and stands near $1.24, around its lowest level for two years. With Johnson's win already priced in, it was little changed on Tuesday.

Divided Kingdom

The 2016 Brexit referendum showed the United Kingdom divided about much more than the European Union, and has fuelled soul-searching about everything from regional secession and immigration to capitalism, the legacy of empire, and modern Britishness.

Brexit, which has already toppled two Conservative prime ministers, will dominate.

Johnson has pledged to negotiate a new Brexit divorce deal with the EU to secure a smooth transition out of the EU before Oct. 31. But if the bloc refuses, as it insists it will, he has promised to leave anyway, "do or die", on the current agreed date of Oct. 31, Halloween.

It is a step that many investors and economists say would send shock waves through world markets and tip the world's fifth-largest economy into recession or even chaos.

The EU said a no-deal Brexit would be a tragedy for both parties but again said the withdrawal deal was not up for negotiation.

"We look forward to working constructively with PM Johnson when he takes office, to facilitate the ratification of the withdrawal agreement and achieve an orderly Brexit," tweeted the bloc's negotiator, Michel Barnier.

A Brexit without a divorce deal would also weaken London’s position as the pre-eminent international financial centre while jolting the northern European economy.

Johnson's Conservatives have no majority in parliament and need the support of 10 lawmakers from Northern Ireland's Brexit-backing Democratic Unionist Party to govern.

Even then, the majority is wafer-thin - and some lawmakers have threatened to bring down the government, a step that would probably deepen Britain's political crisis and lead to an election.

'PM Boris'

The rise of Alexander Boris de Pfeffel Johnson, often referred to as simply "Boris", to the top of British politics is the grandest twist so far in a career that has taken him from journalism via TV-show fame, comedy and scandal into the political brinkmanship of Britain’s Brexit crisis.

Born in New York, Johnson was educated at Eton, Britain’s most exclusive school, and at Balliol College, Oxford. He began his career at a management consultancy in the City of London but dropped out after a week.

He then turned to journalism but was sacked from the Times newspaper for making up quotes.

Hired by the Daily Telegraph, Johnson infuriated European officials and delighted then-prime minister Margaret Thatcher by lampooning the European Economic Community with a host of sometimes misleading reports from Brussels.

After entering politics, he was sacked from the Conservative Party’s policy team while in opposition for lying about an extramarital affair. He and his wife announced last year they were to divorce and he is currently in a relationship with the party's former communications chief, Carrie Symonds.

But his sometimes shambolic personal appearance and disarmingly self-deprecating persona have allowed him to survive both gaffes and scandal. He served two terms as London mayor, from 2008 to 2016.

His embrace of a court jester role has won over many Britons, fed up of what many see as an out-of-touch political establishment too centred on a London elite. But critics say he lacks the gravitas the job requires.

"He has shown time and time again that he isn’t fit to be the prime minister of our country," Jo Swinson, leader of the pro-EU Liberal Democrat party.

In 2016, Johnson became one of the most recognisable faces of the Brexit campaign, which won the referendum by 52 per cent to 48 per cent, but faced accusations of making misleading claims to win support, most notably by stating that Britain would be 350 million pounds ($440 million) a week better off outside the EU.

"I know that there will be people around the place who will question the wisdom of your decision, and there may be some people here who still wonder what they have done," Johnson told party members after his victory was announced.

"I will just point out to you that no one party, no party has a monopoly of wisdom."

Boris Johnson, the Brexiteer who has promised to lead Britain out of the European Union with or without a deal by the end of October, will replace Theresa May as prime minister after winning the leadership of the Conservative Party on Tuesday.

Boris Johnson, the Brexiteer who has promised to lead Britain out of the European Union with or without a deal by the end of October, will replace Theresa May as prime minister after winning the leadership of the Conservative Party on Tuesday. His convincing victory catapults the United Kingdom towards a showdown with the EU and towards a constitutional crisis at home, as British lawmakers have vowed to bring down any government that tries to leave the bloc without a divorce deal. Johnson, the face of the 2016 Brexit referendum, won the votes of 92,153 members of the Conservative party, almost twice the 46,656 won by his rival, Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt. May will leave office on Wednesday after going to Buckingham Palace to see Queen Elizabeth, who will formally appoint Johnson before he enters Downing Street. "We are going to get Brexit done on Oct. 31, and we are going to take advantage of all the opportunities it will bring in a new spirit of 'can do'," Johnson, 55, said after the result was announced. "Like some slumbering giant, we are going to rise and ping off the guy-ropes of self-doubt and negativity." Johnson said the mantra of his leadership campaign had been to "deliver Brexit, unite the country and defeat (opposition Labour leader) Jeremy Corbyn and that is what we are going to do". Within half an hour of his victory, US President Donald Trump had tweeted his congratulations, adding: "He will be great!". The men have recently been complimentary about each other yet Trump is one of the many world leaders, including Russian President Vladimir Putin and Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan, about whom Johnson has previously made derogatory remarks. In 2015, he accused Trump, then a candidate for office, of "stupefying ignorance" that made him unfit to be president. The victory for one of Britain's most flamboyant politicians places an avowed Brexit supporter in charge of the government for the first time since the United Kingdom voted to leave the EU in the shock 2016 referendum. But Johnson is known for his ambition, untidy blond hair, flowery oratory and cursory command of policy detail takes office at one of the most tumultuous junctures in post-World War Two British history. The pound has fallen sharply in recent weeks on fears of a no-deal Brexit, and stands near $1.24, around its lowest level for two years. With Johnson's win already priced in, it was little changed on Tuesday. Divided Kingdom The 2016 Brexit referendum showed the United Kingdom divided about much more than the European Union, and has fuelled soul-searching about everything from regional secession and immigration to capitalism, the legacy of empire, and modern Britishness. Brexit, which has already toppled two Conservative prime ministers, will dominate. Johnson has pledged to negotiate a new Brexit divorce deal with the EU to secure a smooth transition out of the EU before Oct. 31. But if the bloc refuses, as it insists it will, he has promised to leave anyway, "do or die", on the current agreed date of Oct. 31, Halloween. It is a step that many investors and economists say would send shock waves through world markets and tip the world's fifth-largest economy into recession or even chaos. The EU said a no-deal Brexit would be a tragedy for both parties but again said the withdrawal deal was not up for negotiation. "We look forward to working constructively with PM Johnson when he takes office, to facilitate the ratification of the withdrawal agreement and achieve an orderly Brexit," tweeted the bloc's negotiator, Michel Barnier. A Brexit without a divorce deal would also weaken London’s position as the pre-eminent international financial centre while jolting the northern European economy. Johnson's Conservatives have no majority in parliament and need the support of 10 lawmakers from Northern Ireland's Brexit-backing Democratic Unionist Party to govern. Even then, the majority is wafer-thin - and some lawmakers have threatened to bring down the government, a step that would probably deepen Britain's political crisis and lead to an election. 'PM Boris' The rise of Alexander Boris de Pfeffel Johnson, often referred to as simply "Boris", to the top of British politics is the grandest twist so far in a career that has taken him from journalism via TV-show fame, comedy and scandal into the political brinkmanship of Britain’s Brexit crisis. Born in New York, Johnson was educated at Eton, Britain’s most exclusive school, and at Balliol College, Oxford. He began his career at a management consultancy in the City of London but dropped out after a week. He then turned to journalism but was sacked from the Times newspaper for making up quotes. Hired by the Daily Telegraph, Johnson infuriated European officials and delighted then-prime minister Margaret Thatcher by lampooning the European Economic Community with a host of sometimes misleading reports from Brussels. After entering politics, he was sacked from the Conservative Party’s policy team while in opposition for lying about an extramarital affair. He and his wife announced last year they were to divorce and he is currently in a relationship with the party's former communications chief, Carrie Symonds. But his sometimes shambolic personal appearance and disarmingly self-deprecating persona have allowed him to survive both gaffes and scandal. He served two terms as London mayor, from 2008 to 2016. His embrace of a court jester role has won over many Britons, fed up of what many see as an out-of-touch political establishment too centred on a London elite. But critics say he lacks the gravitas the job requires. "He has shown time and time again that he isn’t fit to be the prime minister of our country," Jo Swinson, leader of the pro-EU Liberal Democrat party. In 2016, Johnson became one of the most recognisable faces of the Brexit campaign, which won the referendum by 52 per cent to 48 per cent, but faced accusations of making misleading claims to win support, most notably by stating that Britain would be 350 million pounds ($440 million) a week better off outside the EU. "I know that there will be people around the place who will question the wisdom of your decision, and there may be some people here who still wonder what they have done," Johnson told party members after his victory was announced. "I will just point out to you that no one party, no party has a monopoly of wisdom."

'I say all the doubters, we are going to energize the country and get the Brexit done': Boris Johnson

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday heralded the selection of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boris-johnson-wins-conservative-party-leadership-race-set-to-become-uk-pm-237941">Boris Johnson</a> as the new leader of Britain's governing Conservative Party and the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boris-johnson-a-divisive-politician-with-do-or-die-pledge-over-brexit-237944">United Kingdom's next prime minister</a>, in a possible sign of warmer relations between the two allies.

"Congratulations to Boris Johnson on becoming the new Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. He will be great!" Trump said in a post on Twitter shortly after Johnson's election.

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Congratulations to Boris Johnson on becoming the new Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. He will be great!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1153628242529722369?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 23, 2019</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Trump has had tense relations with outgoing British Prime Minister Theresa May despite being hosted for a state visit. Ties were further strained this month following leaked messages by the British ambassador to Washington that referred to Trump; the official later quit.

The US president has repeatedly praised Johnson, the flamboyant former London mayor and pro-Brexit champion who has been compared to the Republican US president, a former reality television host and real estate developer known for his unconventional, combative approach to politics.

On the other hand, the European Union's Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier said on Tuesday the bloc was ready to work with incoming <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boris-johnsons-stance-on-iran-trump-huawei-and-the-economy-237951">British Prime Minister Boris Johnson</a> for an orderly Brexit.

"We look forward to working constructively with PM Johnson when he takes office, to facilitate the ratification of the withdrawal agreement and achieve an orderly Brexit," Barnier said on Twitter.

"We are ready also to rework the agreed declaration on a new partnership," he said, referring to the political declaration that accompanies the withdrawal agreement.

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We look forward to working constructively w/ PM <a href="https://twitter.com/BorisJohnson?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BorisJohnson</a> when he takes office, to facilitate the ratification of the Withdrawal Agreement and achieve an orderly <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Brexit?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Brexit</a>. We are ready also to rework the agreed Declaration on a new partnership in line with <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EUCO?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EUCO</a> guidelines.
— Michel Barnier (@MichelBarnier) <a href="https://twitter.com/MichelBarnier/status/1153623849357008902?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 23, 2019</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

PM Theresa May also extended her regards, the tweet read&nbsp;"Many congratulations to @BorisJohnson on being elected leader of @Conservatives - we now need to work together to deliver a Brexit that works for the whole UK and to keep Jeremy Corbyn out of government. You will have my full support from the backbenches."

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Many congratulations to <a href="https://twitter.com/BorisJohnson?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BorisJohnson</a> on being elected leader of <a href="https://twitter.com/Conservatives?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Conservatives</a> - we now need to work together to deliver a Brexit that works for the whole UK and to keep Jeremy Corbyn out of government. You will have my full support from the back benches.
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US President Donald Trump on Tuesday heralded the selection of Boris Johnson as the new leader of Britain's governing Conservative Party and the United Kingdom's next prime minister, in a possible sign of warmer relations between the two allies.

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday heralded the selection of Boris Johnson as the new leader of Britain's governing Conservative Party and the United Kingdom's next prime minister, in a possible sign of warmer relations between the two allies. "Congratulations to Boris Johnson on becoming the new Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. He will be great!" Trump said in a post on Twitter shortly after Johnson's election. Congratulations to Boris Johnson on becoming the new Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. He will be great! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) July 23, 2019 × Trump has had tense relations with outgoing British Prime Minister Theresa May despite being hosted for a state visit. Ties were further strained this month following leaked messages by the British ambassador to Washington that referred to Trump; the official later quit. The US president has repeatedly praised Johnson, the flamboyant former London mayor and pro-Brexit champion who has been compared to the Republican US president, a former reality television host and real estate developer known for his unconventional, combative approach to politics. On the other hand, the European Union's Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier said on Tuesday the bloc was ready to work with incoming British Prime Minister Boris Johnson for an orderly Brexit. "We look forward to working constructively with PM Johnson when he takes office, to facilitate the ratification of the withdrawal agreement and achieve an orderly Brexit," Barnier said on Twitter. "We are ready also to rework the agreed declaration on a new partnership," he said, referring to the political declaration that accompanies the withdrawal agreement. We look forward to working constructively w/ PM @BorisJohnson when he takes office, to facilitate the ratification of the Withdrawal Agreement and achieve an orderly #Brexit. We are ready also to rework the agreed Declaration on a new partnership in line with #EUCO guidelines. — Michel Barnier (@MichelBarnier) July 23, 2019 × PM Theresa May also extended her regards, the tweet read "Many congratulations to @BorisJohnson on being elected leader of @Conservatives - we now need to work together to deliver a Brexit that works for the whole UK and to keep Jeremy Corbyn out of government. You will have my full support from the backbenches." Many congratulations to @BorisJohnson on being elected leader of @Conservatives - we now need to work together to deliver a Brexit that works for the whole UK and to keep Jeremy Corbyn out of government. You will have my full support from the back benches. — Theresa May (@theresa_may) July 23, 2019 ×

Congratulations to Boris Johnson on becoming new UK PM, he will be great: Trump

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boris-johnson-bracing-to-become-britains-brexit-prime-minister-237375">Britain's next prime minister</a> will face an overflowing inbox when he takes office on July 24: delivering Brexit, building a relationship with Donald Trump, deciding what to do about Iran and governing without a majority in parliament.

The winner of the Conservative party leadership contest will be announced on Tuesday and should take office as prime minister on Wednesday.

Boris Johnson, leader of the 2016 campaign to leave the European Union, is the front-runner to succeed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/theresa-may-quits-as-party-leader-starting-succession-race-225177">Theresa May</a>. His rival is Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt, who voted "remain" in the Brexit referendum but has repeatedly promised to take Britain out of the EU.

Below are the most urgent tasks the winner will have to tackle:

1) Governing

To <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-brexit-minister-urges-european-union-to-reopen-withdrawal-deal-talks-234121">deliver Brexit</a>, one of the most divisive policies in decades, the new premier will have to show he can win votes in parliament and govern after three years of political crisis.

But he could face a vote of no confidence in the 650-seat parliament as early as his second day in office if the main opposition Labour Party calls one.

On its own, the ruling Conservative Party does not have the majority needed for the new prime minister to survive such a vote, relying under May on the support of 10 allied Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) lawmakers to govern.

Even if the DUP backed the new prime minister in a confidence vote, a handful of Conservative lawmakers have threatened to vote against their party if Britain looks set for a no-deal Brexit.

Failure to clear this first hurdle would collapse the government and could trigger a general election.

2) Brexit

Both Hunt and Johnson want to renegotiate a new deal with the EU, ditching parts of the accord May struck with Brussels last year, which was rejected by parliament three times.

The EU has repeatedly said it will not renegotiate the legally binding part of that deal, the 'Withdrawal Agreement' which sets out a transition period to smooth Britain's exit.

The problem for the next prime minister is that the withdrawal agreement contains the most contentious part of the exit deal an insurance policy to prevent border controls between EU member Ireland and British province Northern Ireland.

EU negotiators are ready to explore several options with the new prime minister, but these fall well short of what Johnson and Hunt say they want.

Hunt and Johnson want to ditch the so-called backstop; the EU says it has to stay.

If Britain cannot negotiate a new deal, or parliament rejects whatever the new leader brings back from Brussels, the country will be headed for an unmanaged exit from the EU a so-called no-deal Brexit on Oct. 31.

Johnson and Hunt both say they have to make sure Britain is fully prepared for such an outcome because it is an important negotiating tool and they cannot rule out that it may happen.

Britain had conducted substantial work toward preparing for no-deal ahead of the original Brexit deadline of March 29, but as the date approached many expressed concern that those preparations were incomplete and had stagnated.

3) Trump and the United States

The new prime minister will need a good relationship with the United States, Britain's closest military ally and a major export market, to help mitigate any impact of stepping away from the EU its biggest trading partner.

But relations between Britain and the United States have suffered in recent weeks after the leak of confidential memos from the British ambassador to Washington which reportedly described Donald Trump's administration as inept.

How the new leader moves on from the spat which saw Trump respond angrily and the ambassador resigns could set the tone for transatlantic ties during a critical period for Britain.

Both sides say they want to agree on a swift and comprehensive free trade agreement after Britain leaves the EU, but political will is likely to determine how quickly that can be done.

4) Iran and China

The United States and European allies are pulling in different directions over the best approach to Iran's nuclear programme, leaving Britain with a difficult choice about who to align with.

Iranian Revolutionary Guards seized the British-flagged tanker Stena Impero in the Strait of Hormuz on Friday, in apparent retaliation for the British capture of an Iranian tanker two weeks earlier.

Allies are watching closely to see whether the new British leader will move towards the United States and away from the EU over Iran policy.

The new prime minister will also have to decide what role Chinese technology firm Huawei will be given in British communications infrastructure, with Trump warning that the security risks are high and could endanger intelligence ties.

That decision could also set the course of relations with China, one of Britain's top targets when it comes to building stronger trading ties outside the EU.

5) Beyond Brexit

While the next prime minister's first test will be to deliver Brexit, he will have to craft a viable long-term vision of post-Brexit Britain that can win over voters, investors and international allies.

Ultimately, the new leader will have to decide what sort of economy the United Kingdom wants and how it will pitch that to the world while choosing between aligning with either European or American regulations.

Britain's next prime minister will face an overflowing inbox when he takes office on July 24: delivering Brexit, building a relationship with Donald Trump, deciding what to do about Iran and governing without a majority in parliament.

Britain's next prime minister will face an overflowing inbox when he takes office on July 24: delivering Brexit, building a relationship with Donald Trump, deciding what to do about Iran and governing without a majority in parliament. The winner of the Conservative party leadership contest will be announced on Tuesday and should take office as prime minister on Wednesday. Boris Johnson, leader of the 2016 campaign to leave the European Union, is the front-runner to succeed Theresa May. His rival is Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt, who voted "remain" in the Brexit referendum but has repeatedly promised to take Britain out of the EU. Below are the most urgent tasks the winner will have to tackle: 1) Governing To deliver Brexit, one of the most divisive policies in decades, the new premier will have to show he can win votes in parliament and govern after three years of political crisis. But he could face a vote of no confidence in the 650-seat parliament as early as his second day in office if the main opposition Labour Party calls one. On its own, the ruling Conservative Party does not have the majority needed for the new prime minister to survive such a vote, relying under May on the support of 10 allied Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) lawmakers to govern. Even if the DUP backed the new prime minister in a confidence vote, a handful of Conservative lawmakers have threatened to vote against their party if Britain looks set for a no-deal Brexit. Failure to clear this first hurdle would collapse the government and could trigger a general election. 2) Brexit Both Hunt and Johnson want to renegotiate a new deal with the EU, ditching parts of the accord May struck with Brussels last year, which was rejected by parliament three times. The EU has repeatedly said it will not renegotiate the legally binding part of that deal, the 'Withdrawal Agreement' which sets out a transition period to smooth Britain's exit. The problem for the next prime minister is that the withdrawal agreement contains the most contentious part of the exit deal an insurance policy to prevent border controls between EU member Ireland and British province Northern Ireland. EU negotiators are ready to explore several options with the new prime minister, but these fall well short of what Johnson and Hunt say they want. Hunt and Johnson want to ditch the so-called backstop; the EU says it has to stay. If Britain cannot negotiate a new deal, or parliament rejects whatever the new leader brings back from Brussels, the country will be headed for an unmanaged exit from the EU a so-called no-deal Brexit on Oct. 31. Johnson and Hunt both say they have to make sure Britain is fully prepared for such an outcome because it is an important negotiating tool and they cannot rule out that it may happen. Britain had conducted substantial work toward preparing for no-deal ahead of the original Brexit deadline of March 29, but as the date approached many expressed concern that those preparations were incomplete and had stagnated. 3) Trump and the United States The new prime minister will need a good relationship with the United States, Britain's closest military ally and a major export market, to help mitigate any impact of stepping away from the EU its biggest trading partner. But relations between Britain and the United States have suffered in recent weeks after the leak of confidential memos from the British ambassador to Washington which reportedly described Donald Trump's administration as inept. How the new leader moves on from the spat which saw Trump respond angrily and the ambassador resigns could set the tone for transatlantic ties during a critical period for Britain. Both sides say they want to agree on a swift and comprehensive free trade agreement after Britain leaves the EU, but political will is likely to determine how quickly that can be done. 4) Iran and China The United States and European allies are pulling in different directions over the best approach to Iran's nuclear programme, leaving Britain with a difficult choice about who to align with. Iranian Revolutionary Guards seized the British-flagged tanker Stena Impero in the Strait of Hormuz on Friday, in apparent retaliation for the British capture of an Iranian tanker two weeks earlier. Allies are watching closely to see whether the new British leader will move towards the United States and away from the EU over Iran policy. The new prime minister will also have to decide what role Chinese technology firm Huawei will be given in British communications infrastructure, with Trump warning that the security risks are high and could endanger intelligence ties. That decision could also set the course of relations with China, one of Britain's top targets when it comes to building stronger trading ties outside the EU. 5) Beyond Brexit While the next prime minister's first test will be to deliver Brexit, he will have to craft a viable long-term vision of post-Brexit Britain that can win over voters, investors and international allies. Ultimately, the new leader will have to decide what sort of economy the United Kingdom wants and how it will pitch that to the world while choosing between aligning with either European or American regulations.

Five urgent tasks for Britain's new prime minister

Prime Minister Theresa May will hold a meeting of Britain's emergencies committee on Monday to discuss <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/seizure-of-british-flagged-tanker-clear-violation-of-international-law-uk-chamber-of-shipping-237519">Iran's seizure of a UK-flagged oil tanker</a> in the Gulf.

In one of her final important acts as prime minister before resigning on Wednesday, May will chair a meeting of Britain's COBR emergencies committee at around 10:30 am (0930 GMT), her Downing Street office said.

"As well as receiving the latest updates from ministers and officials, the COBR meeting will discuss the maintenance of the security of shipping in the Persian Gulf," a spokeswoman said in a brief statement.

It will be Britain's third emergency committee meeting since <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-says-it-is-ready-for-any-scenario-warns-of-escalating-uk-tension-237432">Iran seized the Stena Impero tanker </a>on Friday, in what London has told the UN Security Council was an illegal move conducted in Omani waters.

The meeting will be the first May has chaired on the seizure.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/timeline-irans-recent-clashes-with-the-west-over-gulf-shipping-nuclear-plans-237479">Timeline of Iran's recent clashes with the West over Gulf shipping, nuclear plans</a>

Cabinet Office Briefing Rooms (COBR) meetings typically bring together ministers, security, intelligence and military chiefs in a secure facility in central London.

Britain has a frigate, the HMS Montrose, in the Gulf, and has requested all British-flagged ships to avoid the Strait of Hormuz chokepoint until further notice.

Meanwhile, British Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt spoke to his French and German counterparts over the issue, his office said.

"Both ministers agreed with the foreign secretary that safe passage for vessels through the Strait of Hormuz is a top priority for European nations, while avoiding any possible escalation," it said in a statement.

"They agreed to keep in close contact and to work together to achieve this," the statement said.

Letter to UNSC

In its letter to the UN Security Council, Britain said that Iran had claimed that the Swedish-owned Stena Impero had tried to enter the strait through the exit route, while not responding to messages or warnings and with its transponder switched off.

"This is not the case," the letter said.

Iranian officials have also claimed that the tanker was detained due to a collision with an Iranian fishing boat, the letter said, adding: "There is no evidence of this.

"Even if it had occurred, the ship's location within Omani territorial waters means that Iran would not have been permitted to intercept the Stena Impero."

Junior defence minister Tobias Ellwood said Sunday that Britain was considering several options.

Asked if Britain could introduce new sanctions or freeze Iranian assets, finance minister Philip Hammond told BBC television: "We've already got a wide raft of sanctions against Iran, particularly financial sanctions, so it's not clear that there are immediate things we can do but we are of course looking at all the options."

Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt has said parliament will be updated on the situation on Monday.

Either Hunt or former London mayor Boris Johnson will be confirmed as the new leader of the governing Conservative Party on Tuesday and take over from May as prime minister on Wednesday.

Prime Minister Theresa May will hold a meeting of Britain's emergencies committee on Monday to discuss Iran's seizure of a UK-flagged oil tanker in the Gulf. In one of her final important acts as prime minister before resigning on Wednesday, May will chair a meeting of Britain's COBR emergencies committee at around 10:30 am (0930 GMT), her Downing Street office said.

Prime Minister Theresa May will hold a meeting of Britain's emergencies committee on Monday to discuss Iran's seizure of a UK-flagged oil tanker in the Gulf. In one of her final important acts as prime minister before resigning on Wednesday, May will chair a meeting of Britain's COBR emergencies committee at around 10:30 am (0930 GMT), her Downing Street office said. "As well as receiving the latest updates from ministers and officials, the COBR meeting will discuss the maintenance of the security of shipping in the Persian Gulf," a spokeswoman said in a brief statement. It will be Britain's third emergency committee meeting since Iran seized the Stena Impero tanker on Friday, in what London has told the UN Security Council was an illegal move conducted in Omani waters. The meeting will be the first May has chaired on the seizure. Also read: Timeline of Iran's recent clashes with the West over Gulf shipping, nuclear plans Cabinet Office Briefing Rooms (COBR) meetings typically bring together ministers, security, intelligence and military chiefs in a secure facility in central London. Britain has a frigate, the HMS Montrose, in the Gulf, and has requested all British-flagged ships to avoid the Strait of Hormuz chokepoint until further notice. Meanwhile, British Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt spoke to his French and German counterparts over the issue, his office said. "Both ministers agreed with the foreign secretary that safe passage for vessels through the Strait of Hormuz is a top priority for European nations, while avoiding any possible escalation," it said in a statement. "They agreed to keep in close contact and to work together to achieve this," the statement said. Letter to UNSC In its letter to the UN Security Council, Britain said that Iran had claimed that the Swedish-owned Stena Impero had tried to enter the strait through the exit route, while not responding to messages or warnings and with its transponder switched off. "This is not the case," the letter said. Iranian officials have also claimed that the tanker was detained due to a collision with an Iranian fishing boat, the letter said, adding: "There is no evidence of this. "Even if it had occurred, the ship's location within Omani territorial waters means that Iran would not have been permitted to intercept the Stena Impero." Junior defence minister Tobias Ellwood said Sunday that Britain was considering several options. Asked if Britain could introduce new sanctions or freeze Iranian assets, finance minister Philip Hammond told BBC television: "We've already got a wide raft of sanctions against Iran, particularly financial sanctions, so it's not clear that there are immediate things we can do but we are of course looking at all the options." Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt has said parliament will be updated on the situation on Monday. Either Hunt or former London mayor Boris Johnson will be confirmed as the new leader of the governing Conservative Party on Tuesday and take over from May as prime minister on Wednesday.

British PM Theresa May to hold emergency meeting on seized tanker

Foreign Office minister Alan Duncan, who quit on Monday, said Britain was being forced to work under a "dark cloud" caused by Brexit, setting out the reasons for his resignation in a letter to Prime Minister Theresa May.

"It is tragic that just when we could have been the dominant intellectual and political force throughout Europe, and beyond, we have to spend every day working beneath the dark cloud of Brexit," he wrote in the letter, published on Twitter.

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I resigned as Foreign Office minister this morning. Here is my letter to the Prime Minister. <a href="https://t.co/1kpt7rHsF0">pic.twitter.com/1kpt7rHsF0</a>
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His move follows last week's resignation of Margot James, a culture minister when she described Johnson's do-or-die promise to leave the European Union (EU) by October&nbsp;31 with, or without, a deal as "quite incredible" for going against business organisations.

If the polls and bookmakers are right, Johnson will become Britain's new prime minister on Wednesday and will immediately face the riddle that is Britain's&nbsp;Brexit&nbsp;negotiation.

Johnson, a former London mayor, has said he will ramp up preparations for a no-deal exit to try to force the EU's negotiators to make changes to the agreement that Prime Minister Theresa May sealed and British lawmakers voted down three times.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/johnson-vs-hunt-who-will-be-the-next-uk-prime-minister-237641/embed" width="560" height="350" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" autoplay=1 allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

Meanwhile, Johnson's leadership rival foreign minister Jeremy Hunt attended the British government's emergency response committee Cabinet Office Briefing Rooms (COBR)&nbsp;on Monday to discuss Iran's seizure of a British-flagged tanker.

Foreign Office minister Alan Duncan, who quit on Monday, said Britain was being forced to work under a "dark cloud" caused by Brexit, setting out the reasons for his resignation in a letter to Prime Minister Theresa May.

Foreign Office minister Alan Duncan, who quit on Monday, said Britain was being forced to work under a "dark cloud" caused by Brexit, setting out the reasons for his resignation in a letter to Prime Minister Theresa May. "It is tragic that just when we could have been the dominant intellectual and political force throughout Europe, and beyond, we have to spend every day working beneath the dark cloud of Brexit," he wrote in the letter, published on Twitter. I resigned as Foreign Office minister this morning. Here is my letter to the Prime Minister. pic.twitter.com/1kpt7rHsF0 — Sir Alan Duncan MP (@AlanDuncanMP) July 22, 2019 × His move follows last week's resignation of Margot James, a culture minister when she described Johnson's do-or-die promise to leave the European Union (EU) by October 31 with, or without, a deal as "quite incredible" for going against business organisations. If the polls and bookmakers are right, Johnson will become Britain's new prime minister on Wednesday and will immediately face the riddle that is Britain's Brexit negotiation. Johnson, a former London mayor, has said he will ramp up preparations for a no-deal exit to try to force the EU's negotiators to make changes to the agreement that Prime Minister Theresa May sealed and British lawmakers voted down three times. Meanwhile, Johnson's leadership rival foreign minister Jeremy Hunt attended the British government's emergency response committee Cabinet Office Briefing Rooms (COBR) on Monday to discuss Iran's seizure of a British-flagged tanker.

Sad that Britain has to work under Brexit 'dark cloud', says minister Alan Duncan after resigning

Foreign Office minister Alan Duncan, who quit on Monday, said Britain was being forced to work under a "dark cloud" caused by Brexit, setting out the reasons for his resignation in a letter to Prime Minister Theresa May.

"It is tragic that just when we could have been the dominant intellectual and political force throughout Europe, and beyond, we have to spend every day working beneath the dark cloud of Brexit," he wrote in the letter, published on Twitter.

Foreign Office minister Alan Duncan, who quit on Monday, said Britain was being forced to work under a "dark cloud" caused by Brexit, setting out the reasons for his resignation in a letter to Prime Minister Theresa May. "It is tragic that just when we could have been the dominant intellectual and political force throughout Europe, and beyond, we have to spend every day working beneath the dark cloud of Brexit," he wrote in the letter, published on Twitter.

Resigning UK minister: Sad that Britain has to work under Brexit 'dark cloud'

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