This archive report was first published on 24 July 2019.
Boris Johnson Takes Office as U.K. Prime Minister ¶
On July 24, 2019, Boris Johnson, a former foreign secretary and London mayor, took office as the U.K.'s new prime minister, succeeding Theresa May. Johnson, a key figure in the Brexit campaign, has vowed to lead Britain out of the European Union by October 31, with or without a deal.
Johnson's first speech as prime minister, delivered outside 10 Downing Street, was a rebuke to those who doubt his ability to lead. He stated, 'After three years of unfounded self-doubt, it is time to change the record.' Johnson also promised to start work immediately on a series of policies, including putting more police officers on the streets, revitalizing social care, and strengthening the National Health Service.
Johnson's leadership team will include Dominic Cummings, a director of the 'Vote Leave' campaign for the 2016 referendum on Britain's withdrawal from the European Union. Cummings' appointment has been met with controversy, given his role in the Brexit campaign's successful strategy.
Johnson's Conservative Party lacks an outright majority in Parliament, and he will face deep challenges as he takes the helm, with Brexit looming large and tensions with Iran bubbling into a potential crisis.
