Rishi Sunak Under Pressure to Address Boris Johnson Report Controversy

Rishi Sunak is facing mounting criticism from Tory MPs and Labour leaders for his silence on a damning parliamentary report into Boris Johnson's conduct. The report, which condemned Johnson for lying to MPs and complicity in harassment, was overwhelmingly approved by 347 MPs, with just seven voting against. As Labour prepares to challenge Sunak on the issue at prime minister's questions, Tory MPs are growing frustrated with his silence, with one former cabinet minister labeling it an "opportunity missed" for Sunak to send a clear signal that things have changed in the party.

Key Takeaways:

  • The House of Commons privileges committee report condemned Boris Johnson for lying to MPs about partygate and lying to the committee, and recommended he be banned from having a pass to access the Commons.
  • The report was overwhelmingly approved by a majority of 347 MPs, with just seven voting against.
  • Rishi Sunak has come under pressure from Tory MPs for his silence on the report, with one former cabinet minister saying it was an "opportunity missed" for Sunak to send a clear signal that things have changed in the party.
  • Labour is preparing to challenge Sunak on the issue at prime minister's questions, citing his "refusal to condemn Boris Johnson's contempt for the British people".
  • Tory MPs' frustration with Sunak's silence grew after Downing Street said the prime minister "fully respects the decision of the House" but insisted the vote was a matter for parliament rather than the government.
  • The report's findings have been widely criticized, with one party official saying Sunak had a chance to "uphold democracy and draw a line" but instead "wimped out" because he wouldn't stand up to his party.

Statistics:

  • 347 MPs voted to approve the report, with just seven voting against (The Telegraph)
  • 10, thank you very much