Boris Johnson wants to remain prime minister because of his wedding plans

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Boris and Carrie Johnson (archive)

Photo: Kirsty Wigglesworth/AP

After his resignation as head of the conservative Tories, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson may have to look for a new place for his wedding celebration: Johnson and his wife Carrie had married in May 2021 in a small circle - because of the corona restrictions, they could only have 30 guests at a garden party in invite Downing Street.

A big party is now planned for July 30th at Checkers, the official country home of the British Prime Minister.

On Thursday, Johnson announced that he would remain prime minister until a new party leader is elected - possibly until the party conference in October.

The "Daily Mirror", the "Guardian" and other British media are now reporting that the schedule is mainly related to Johnson's wedding plans - the invitations to Checkers have already been sent.

A slip of the tongue also suggests that Johnson had the 16th-century mansion in mind in his resignation speech: when he announced his resignation outside his official residence in London's Downing Street, he thanked his "wonderful staff here in Checkers".

London Mayor Sadiq Khan of the opposition Labor Party ironically commented on the allegations: "Even if we would all like to have a lavish wedding feast at taxpayers' expense in Checkers, he will not be able to do it because the British public will find it abhorrent". Khan said on LBC radio.

The 58-year-old Johnson said he was "sad" that he had to give up "the best job in the world" on Thursday after a total of three turbulent years in office, caused by Brexit, the corona pandemic, Russia's attack on Ukraine and a record -Inflation were shaped, said.

In the evening he announced that he would leave "big budget decisions" to his successor.

Meanwhile, the voices for a quicker farewell to Johnson from Downing Street were already increasing.

According to a YouGov poll, 56 percent of Brits are in favour.

"For the good of the country, Johnson should not remain in Downing Street any longer than necessary," said former British Prime Minister John Major, who ruled from 1990 to 1997.

Scottish Prime Minister Nicola Sturgeon said on the BBC that Johnson would "undoubtedly wreak havoc more than he has done so far" if he stays in office until the autumn.

Opposition leader Keir Starmer called for a "restart for Great Britain".

What the country needs now is “no change at the top of the Tories.

We need a real change of government,” demanded the left-wing Labor politician.

Ireland's Prime Minister Michael Martin said Johnson's resignation as party leader offered "an opportunity to rediscover the spirit of partnership and mutual respect".

dop/AFP