House of Commons tells Johnson ‘Bye Boris’ after PMQ | Watch

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson has vowed not to step down, despite many high-ranking officials resigning, and refusing to continue working for the scandal-ridden government. The embattled leader faced the PMQ at the House of Commons today, at the end of which members told him “Bye, Boris”, while many also waved goodbye when the PM was giving his speech. 

Johnson rose to the despatch box, starting off with “Mr Speaker, I had meetings with ministerial colleagues and others”, and continued, “I expect I will have further such meetings later today.” 

Keir Stramer, the leader of the opposition Labour Party asked Johnson about Chris Pincher’s appointment, during which time the PM didn’t deny using the phrase “Pincher by name, pincher by nature”, to refer to the former deputy chief whip who’s now stepped down amid sexual misconduct allegations. 

Also Read | Chris Pincher resignation: The 2017 Alex Story accusations

Johnson’s answers were met with silence from the benches behind him until the members joined in to say goodbye when he exited the chambers. Before Johnson left, former health minister Sajid Javid read out his statement of resignation. 

Javid stepped down yesterday, setting off a chain of events that included finance minister Rishi Sunak giving up his post while Conservative Party vice-chairman Bim Afolami quit on live television. Several other MPs have also resigned as has the solicitor general Alex Chalk. 

Also Read | What UK PM Boris Johnson told resigning ministers Sajid Javid, Rishi Sunak

Despite the shrinking confidence of the Conservative Party, Johnson can only be removed by a no-confidence vote, which would include forgoing previously established rules. The controversial PM won the last vote in June by a narrow margin, and as per the rules, cannot face another such vote until one year has elapsed. However, rebel MPs have proposed altering them to oust Johnson, and it will be up to the 1922 Committee to take the call. 

From partygate to Pincher, Johnson’s controversies have kept Downing Street busy, trying to put out fires allowing the 58-year-old to retain his position.