The Intelligence from The Economist You, May, be excused: Boris Johnson ascends
Jul 23, 2019
Tom Wainwright, The Economist's keen Britain editor, dives into the turbulent waters of British politics with an eye on Boris Johnson's leadership. He discusses the Prime Minister’s uphill battle with a fractured Parliament and the ongoing Brexit saga. As Europe grapples with its steel industry woes, a hidden gem in Austria showcases resilience. Wainwright also touches on how political affiliations are reshaping roommate dynamics in America, revealing the surprising power of partisanship in personal relationships.
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New Prime Minister, Old Problems
- Boris Johnson won the Conservative leadership election by a significant margin, becoming the new Prime Minister.
- He inherits the same problems as his predecessor, including a divided party and a slim parliamentary majority.
Johnson's Electability
- Mr. Johnson's appeal lies in his perceived ability to win elections, particularly by attracting hard Brexit voters back to the Conservatives.
- This perceived electability overshadowed concerns about his past actions and unpopularity among some MPs.
Brexit Renegotiation Challenges
- Johnson's Brexit plan involves renegotiating the deal, removing the Irish backstop, and potentially not paying the agreed-upon sum.
- The EU has firmly stated its unwillingness to renegotiate, creating a potential impasse.