Newscast Matt Chorley interviews Boris Johnson
Oct 8, 2024
Boris Johnson, the former Prime Minister of the UK, shares insights from his controversial tenure marked by Brexit and the COVID-19 pandemic. He discusses whether Brexit facilitated the rapid COVID vaccination rollout and reflects on his exit from Downing Street. The conversation includes humorous anecdotes about political integrity, the ethics of gifts during his office, and the challenges of engaging with a scrutinizing public. Johnson also touches on his hopes for a political comeback and the importance of his book 'Unleashed' as a governance guide.
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Brexit and Vaccines
- Boris Johnson insists Brexit enabled a faster vaccine rollout, citing the UK's ability to license and distribute vaccines earlier than other European countries.
- Matt Chorley challenges this claim, pointing out that the UK was still under EU regulations during the initial vaccine rollout.
Cricket over Politics
- In 2016, Boris Johnson prioritized playing cricket over immediately pursuing the prime ministership after the Brexit vote.
- He explained this by saying it would have been rude to cancel a prior engagement with a friend, Charlie.
Owen Paterson Scandal
- Boris Johnson's handling of the Owen Paterson lobbying scandal is highlighted as a turning point in his premiership.
- Instead of addressing the report's findings, he dined with former colleagues, leading to a loss of confidence among his MPs.
