Outgoing British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has promised “nothing but vigorous support” to his successor, Liz Truss. That’s what the conservative politician said today in a final speech as British Prime Minister in London’s Downing Street. Hundreds of employees, members of parliament, photographers and reporters had gathered on the blocked-off street.
With the appearance, Johnson said goodbye to the top government following a good three years in office. As usual, the 58-year-old humorously dismissed speculation regarding a possible comeback, but did not leave any doubt as to how serious he was regarding it.
“Let me say that I am now like one of those launch vehicles that has done its job and gently reenters the atmosphere and sinks invisibly somewhere in a distant part of the Pacific,” Johnson said.
Audience with the Queen
The 58-year-old once once more listed the actual and alleged achievements of his reign – including Brexit, the rapid distribution of CoV vaccines, the early support of Ukraine with arms deliveries, the fight once morest crime and the construction of new hospitals.
He then got into a car with his wife Carrie and set off for Scotland. He is due around noon for an audience with Queen Elizabeth II, where he will ask for his release from office.
Immediately followingwards, the 96-year-old head of state is to commission his successor, Truss, to form a government. Truss also wants to address the nation from Downing Street in the followingnoon.
Difficult legacy for Truss
After Margaret Thatcher and Theresa May, Britain now has its third female prime minister in Truss. The previous foreign minister is inheriting a difficult legacy. The energy crisis, the consequences of Brexit, but also concerns regarding the national health service NHS are plaguing the country. In her short victory speech, Truss declared that she now wanted to “deliver”. The criticism of the 47-year-old is already great.
