The Diary Of A CEO with Steven Bartlett
(EXCLUSIVE) Boris Johnson: "They Were Looking at Engineering The Virus" And The Government Tried To Bribe Me!
Oct 10, 2024
Boris Johnson, former Prime Minister of the UK, dives deep into his tumultuous political life. He shares his candid thoughts on supporting Brexit without a plan and reflects on the chaotic pandemic response, including ‘Partygate’. Johnson reveals insights on zoonotic diseases and the origins of COVID-19, hinting at the serious discussions amongst leaders. He also touches on the socio-economic disparities in the UK and his perspective on the future of politics amid high-profile international figures.
01:55:39
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Quick takeaways
- Boris Johnson reflects on the challenges of leading during the COVID-19 crisis and acknowledges mistakes in managing public health responses.
- The former Prime Minister discusses his views on Brexit, balancing national sovereignty with criticism regarding a lack of post-exit planning.
Deep dives
Partygate Controversy and Public Perception
The controversy surrounding alleged gatherings at 10 Downing Street during lockdowns has stirred significant public outrage. The former Prime Minister expressed frustration over the media portrayal of these events as 'parties,' arguing that what occurred were working gatherings amidst a challenging time. He acknowledges the anger felt by the public, especially those unable to attend funerals or see their loved ones, and admits responsibility for not better managing the optics of the situation. He believes those in leadership should exemplify adherence to rules, suggesting a need for greater vigilance in how his team conducted internal gatherings.
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