British PM forced to step down after revolt

BRITAIN’s Prime Minister, Boris Johson who was forced to step down on Thursday after a revolt among Tory Members of Parliament has promised his cabinet that he will not use his remaining time as prime minister to make major changes of direction.

Johnson, prime minister since 2019 caved in to pressure from ministers to quit as Tory leader but wants to stay in No 10 until the party chooses who should replace him.

His collapse in support has prompted some Tories to urge him to go now.

But a newly-promoted cabinet minister says Johnson has agreed to carry on as a caretaker prime minister.

An official timetable for a Tory leadership race is expected to be confirmed next week, with potential contenders already jockeying for position.

There is no set duration for such a contest, but a new leader, who will also become the prime minister, is expected by September.

Attorney General, Suella Braverman and backbench MP Tom Tugendhat are the only Tory MPs to confirm they will stand so far, but more declarations are expected in the coming days.

The BBC has been told former health secretary, Sajid Javid and Transport Secretary, Grant Shapps, who were part of the cabinet revolt against Johnson, are considering leadership bids.

Foreign Secretary Liz Truss, former chancellor Rishi Sunak and ex- foreign secretary Jeremy Hunt are among others tipped to run.

Former prime minister, Sir John Major is among Tories suggesting Johnson should quit as PM immediately, arguing it would be unwise for him to stay until he is replaced.

Sir John has suggested to party bosses the leadership contest should be speeded up, or if not deputy PM, Dominic Raab should become caretaker PM.

Labour has also threatened to try and unseat Johnson immediately through a parliamentary vote of no confidence, although this would need considerable support among Tories to succeed. (BBC)