"Boris" Johnson served as the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 2019 to 2022. A controversial figure, he previously was the Mayor of London and also held the position of Foreign Secretary. Johnson has been a Member of Parliament since 2001, though not in consecutive terms.
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1945: Post-World War II Europe
The year 1945 marked the end of World War II, which had a profound impact on the political landscape of Europe.
June 1964: Birth of Boris Johnson
Boris Johnson was born in June 1964 in Manhattan, New York City. His parents were Stanley Johnson, who was studying economics at Columbia University, and Charlotte Fawcett, an artist.
September 1964: Boris Johnson's Family Returns to the UK
Boris Johnson's parents returned to the UK with him in September 1964 so his mother, Charlotte, could study at the University of Oxford.
July 1965: Boris Johnson's Family Moves to Crouch End
Boris Johnson's family moved to Crouch End in North London in July 1965.
September 1965: Birth of Boris Johnson's Sister, Rachel
Boris Johnson's sister, Rachel, was born in September 1965.
February 1966: Boris Johnson's Family Relocates to Washington, D.C.
Boris Johnson's family relocated to Washington, D.C. in February 1966 for his father Stanley's work with the World Bank.
September 1967: Birth of Boris Johnson's Brother, Leo
Boris Johnson's brother, Leo, was born in September 1967.
1969: Boris Johnson's Family Returns to the UK
Boris Johnson's family returned to the UK in 1969, settling into West Nethercote Farm in Somerset.
1970: Boris Johnson Attends Winsford Village School
Boris Johnson briefly attended Winsford Village School in 1970 when his mother and siblings returned to Nethercote.
1971: Birth of Boris Johnson's Brother, Joseph
Boris Johnson's brother, Joseph, was born in late 1971.
April 1973: Boris Johnson's Family Moves to Brussels
Boris Johnson's family moved to Uccle, Brussels in April 1973 after his father, Stanley, secured a job at the European Commission.
1975: Boris Johnson Attends Ashdown House
Boris Johnson and his siblings were sent to attend Ashdown House, a preparatory boarding school in East Sussex, in 1975.
1977: Boris Johnson Attends Eton College
Boris Johnson began studying at Eton College, a boarding school near Windsor, Berkshire, in the autumn term of 1977 after gaining a King's Scholarship.
December 1978: Boris Johnson's Parents Separate
Boris Johnson's parents separated in December 1978.
1980: Boris Johnson's Parents Divorce
Boris Johnson's parents divorced in 1980.
1981: Boris Johnson Becomes a Member of Pop
Boris Johnson became a member of Pop, a small, self-selecting elite group of school prefects at Eton College in late 1981.
1983: Boris Johnson Attends Balliol College, Oxford
Boris Johnson began attending Balliol College, Oxford in late 1983 after winning a scholarship to study Literae Humaniores.
1984: Elected Secretary of the Oxford Union
In 1984, Boris Johnson was elected secretary of the prestigious Oxford Union debating society. He would later launch an unsuccessful bid for the position of Union President.
1986: Boris Johnson Elected President of the Oxford Union
Boris Johnson was elected president of the Oxford Union in 1986.
1986: Elected President of the Oxford Union
After an unsuccessful bid for the position in 1984, Boris Johnson was elected President of the Oxford Union in 1986. However, his term was marked by questions surrounding his competence and commitment to the role.
September 1987: Marriage and Early Career at The Times
Boris Johnson married Allegra Mostyn-Owen in September 1987 and began working as a graduate trainee at The Times newspaper. However, his time at the newspaper was short-lived, ending with his dismissal for fabricating a quote.
1987: Marriage to Allegra Mostyn-Owen
Boris Johnson married Allegra Mostyn-Owen, the daughter of art historian William Mostyn-Owen and writer Gaia Servadio, in 1987.
1989: Boris Johnson Begins Writing for The Daily Telegraph
Boris Johnson began his career in journalism in 1989 writing for The Daily Telegraph.
1989: Appointment as Brussels Correspondent for The Daily Telegraph
In 1989, Boris Johnson began working as the Brussels correspondent for The Daily Telegraph. His time in this role was marked by his Eurosceptic views and controversial articles about the European Commission.
February 1990: Separation from Allegra Mostyn-Owen
Boris Johnson and his wife, Allegra Mostyn-Owen separated in February 1990. The couple would later divorce in 1993 after attempts at reconciliation.
1990: Phone Call with Darius Guppy
In 1990, Boris Johnson participated in a phone call with Darius Guppy that would later become public and cause significant controversy, raising questions about his judgment and integrity.
April 1993: Divorce from Allegra Mostyn-Owen
In April 1993, Boris Johnson's divorce from Allegra Mostyn-Owen was finalized. This followed a period of separation and attempts at reconciliation.
May 1993: Marriage to Marina Wheeler
Shortly after his divorce from Allegra Mostyn-Owen, Boris Johnson married his childhood friend, Marina Wheeler, in May 1993.
1993: Aspirations for European Parliament
Boris Johnson expressed his desire to run as a Conservative candidate in the 1994 European Parliament elections, but failed to secure a constituency.
1993: Divorce from Allegra Mostyn-Owen and Marriage to Marina Wheeler
Johnson's marriage to Allegra Mostyn-Owen ended in either divorce or annulment in 1993. Just 12 days later, he married Marina Wheeler, a barrister. Their first child was born five weeks after the wedding.
1994: Unsuccessful Search for European Parliament Constituency
Boris Johnson was unable to find a constituency to run for in the 1994 European Parliament elections, despite support from figures like Andrew Mitchell.
1994: End of Tenure as Brussels Correspondent
In 1994, Boris Johnson ended his tenure as the Brussels correspondent for The Daily Telegraph, after establishing himself as a prominent Eurosceptic voice.
June 1995: Scandal Over Recorded Phone Call
In June 1995, a recording of a 1990 phone call between Boris Johnson and Darius Guppy was made public. In the call, Johnson agreed to provide Guppy with the private address of a journalist, raising concerns about his judgment and integrity.
1997: Unsuccessful Run for Clwyd South Constituency
Boris Johnson ran for the Clwyd South constituency in the 1997 general election but was unsuccessful, losing to Labour candidate Martyn Jones.
July 1999: Appointment as Editor of The Spectator
Boris Johnson was appointed editor of The Spectator in July 1999, a move that solidified his position in the British media landscape. His tenure was marked by both success in increasing circulation and criticism for his editorial decisions.
1999: Boris Johnson Becomes Editor of The Spectator
Boris Johnson became editor of The Spectator in 1999.
1999: New Column in GQ Magazine
In 1999, Boris Johnson took on a new role as a car reviewer for the American men's magazine, GQ. His tenure was marked by a large number of parking fines, highlighting his often chaotic personal life.
1999: Alleged Inappropriate Behavior at The Spectator
In 1999, during his time as editor of The Spectator, Boris Johnson allegedly engaged in inappropriate behavior towards journalist Charlotte Edwardes. These allegations, which he denied, resurfaced in 2019.
2000: Beginning of Affair with Petronella Wyatt
Boris Johnson began an affair with Spectator columnist Petronella Wyatt in 2000 while he was the magazine's editor. The affair had significant personal consequences, including a terminated pregnancy and a miscarriage.
2000: Johnson's Affair with Petronella Wyatt Begins
Boris Johnson's affair with Spectator columnist Petronella Wyatt began in 2000, leading to significant controversy and his dismissal from the Shadow Cabinet four years later.
2001: Johnson's Early Parliamentary Career Marked by Mixed Attendance and Support for Section 28 Repeal
During his initial years in Parliament, Boris Johnson's attendance record was inconsistent. He often voted along the Conservative Party line, but on free votes, he demonstrated more socially liberal views. Notably, he supported both the Gender Recognition Act 2004 and the repeal of Section 28, despite having previously spoken against repealing the latter in 2001.
2001: Boris Johnson Elected as MP for Henley
In 2001, Boris Johnson was elected as the Conservative MP for Henley, a safe seat in Oxfordshire. Despite a mixed reception from the local Conservative branch, with some questioning his knowledge of the area and flippant attitude, Johnson's television fame helped him secure the seat.
2001: Boris Johnson Elected MP for Henley
Boris Johnson was elected as the Member of Parliament (MP) for Henley in 2001.
2001: Johnson Publishes "Friends, Voters, Countrymen: Jottings on the Stump"
Boris Johnson published his book "Friends, Voters, Countrymen: Jottings on the Stump" in 2001, chronicling his experiences during that year's election campaign.
April 2003: Johnson Visits Baghdad After Supporting Iraq Invasion
In April 2003, after supporting the US-led invasion of Iraq, Boris Johnson visited Baghdad, which was under occupation at the time.
November 2003: Johnson Appointed Conservative Vice-Chairman by Michael Howard
Following Michael Howard's appointment as Conservative leader in November 2003, Boris Johnson was made vice-chairman of the party, tasked with leading the party's election campaign.
2003: Johnson Publishes Collection of Columns and Articles in "Lend Me Your Ears"
In 2003, Boris Johnson released "Lend Me Your Ears", a compilation of his previously published columns and articles.
2003: Johnson Expresses Pro-EU Sentiments
In 2003, Boris Johnson stated his moderate stance on the European Union, saying, "I am not by any means an ultra-Eurosceptic. In some ways, I am a bit of a fan of the European Union. If we did not have one, we would invent something like it."
May 2004: Johnson Becomes Shadow Arts Minister
In May 2004, Michael Howard appointed Boris Johnson as the shadow arts minister in a cabinet reshuffle.
November 2004: Johnson Sacked from Shadow Cabinet over Affair Revelations
Boris Johnson was dismissed from his positions as vice-chairman and shadow arts minister in November 2004 after initially denying allegations of an extramarital affair with Spectator columnist Petronella Wyatt, which later proved to be true. His refusal to resign led to his dismissal by Michael Howard.
2004: Controversial Editorial on Hillsborough Disaster
Boris Johnson sparked outrage in 2004 with an editorial in The Spectator that suggested Liverpudlians were "hooked on grief" over the Hillsborough disaster. The editorial, which also blamed the disaster in part on "drunken fans," drew criticism for being insensitive and inaccurate.
2004: Boris Johnson Sacked from Shadow Cabinet
Boris Johnson was sacked from Michael Howard's shadow cabinet in 2004 for lying about his private life.
2004: End of Affair with Petronella Wyatt
Boris Johnson's affair with Spectator columnist Petronella Wyatt ended in 2004. The affair had significant personal consequences, including a terminated pregnancy and a miscarriage.
2004: Johnson Publishes Debut Novel, "Seventy-Two Virgins: A Comedy of Errors"
Boris Johnson's first novel, "Seventy-Two Virgins: A Comedy of Errors", was published by HarperCollins in 2004. The book, which drew on autobiographical elements, satirized the life of a Conservative MP.
2005: London Wins 2012 Olympics Bid
London won the bid to host the 2012 Summer Olympics under Ken Livingstone's mayoralty in 2005.
2005: Johnson Re-elected as MP for Henley, Becomes Shadow Higher Education Minister
Boris Johnson was re-elected as MP for Henley in the 2005 general election. Following David Cameron's election as Conservative leader, Johnson was appointed shadow higher education minister.
2005: Boris Johnson Leaves The Spectator
Boris Johnson left his role as editor of The Spectator in 2005.
2005: Criticism for Comments on Islam
Boris Johnson faced backlash in 2005 for his comments about Islam in his book "The Dream of Rome." His argument that Islam had caused the Muslim world to fall behind the West drew criticism for being Islamophobic and historically inaccurate.
2005: Johnson Dismissed as Editor of The Spectator
Andrew Neil, the new chief executive of The Spectator, dismissed Boris Johnson from his role as editor in 2005. To compensate for the loss of income, Johnson negotiated a higher salary for his column in The Daily Telegraph.
January 2006: Johnson Presents "The Dream of Rome", a Popular History Television Show
In January 2006, Boris Johnson presented "The Dream of Rome", a popular history television program. He later authored a companion book to the series, released in February.
April 2006: Allegations of an Affair with Journalist Anna Fazackerley Surface
In April 2006, the News of the World published allegations of an affair between Boris Johnson and journalist Anna Fazackerley. Neither party commented on the allegations, and Johnson subsequently employed Fazackerley.
April 2006: Allegations of Affair with Anna Fazackerley
The News of the World reported in April 2006 that Johnson was having an affair with Guardian journalist Anna Fazackerley. Neither party commented on the allegations. Johnson employed Fazackerley shortly after the report.
September 2006: Johnson Sparks Controversy with Papua New Guinea Cannibalism Comparison
Boris Johnson drew criticism from Papua New Guinea's High Commission in September 2006 after he compared the Conservative party's frequent leadership changes to cannibalism in the country.
December 2006: Johnson Calls Iraq Invasion a "Colossal Mistake"
In December 2006, Boris Johnson publicly stated that the invasion of Iraq was a "colossal mistake and misadventure", shifting his stance from his earlier support of the war.
2006: Johnson's Bid for University of Edinburgh Rector Fails
In 2006, Boris Johnson campaigned to become the Rector of the University of Edinburgh. However, his support for top-up fees proved controversial and he placed third in the election.
2007: Financial Crisis
Following the financial crisis of 2007, Boris Johnson took a strong stance in support of London's financial sector.
2007: Admission of Cannabis Use
Boris Johnson admitted to smoking cannabis before attending university in 2007, providing insight into his past experiences.
2007: Johnson Becomes Third-Highest-Earning MP
Boris Johnson's various income streams, including his newspaper column and television appearances, made him the third-highest-earning MP in 2007.
May 2008: Formation of the Forensic Audit Panel
In May 2008, Boris Johnson announced the formation of the Forensic Audit Panel, which aimed to scrutinize financial management within the London Development Agency and the Greater London Authority. The announcement drew criticism from the Labour party, who perceived it as an attempt to inject political bias into an ostensibly independent body.
July 2008: Mayor's Office Announces Abandonment of Tube Ticket Office Closure Plan
On July 2, 2008, the Mayor's office, under Boris Johnson, reversed the previous administration's plan to close up to 40 London Underground ticket offices.
October 2008: Resignation of Ian Blair
In October 2008, Boris Johnson successfully pushed for the resignation of Metropolitan Police Commissioner Ian Blair, who was facing criticism over his handling of certain situations.
2008: Boris Johnson Elected Mayor of London
Boris Johnson was elected Mayor of London in 2008.
2008: Rachel Johnson Joins the Conservative Party
Boris Johnson's sister, Rachel Johnson, joined the Conservative Party in 2008.
2008: Johnson Endorses Barack Obama for US President
Breaking from traditional protocol, Boris Johnson publicly endorsed Barack Obama during the 2008 US presidential election.
2009: Advocacy for a Referendum on EU Membership
Beginning in 2009, Johnson advocated for a referendum on Britain's membership in the European Union, a stance that would later become central to his political career.
2009: Birth of Daughter with Helen Macintyre
In 2009, Boris Johnson fathered a daughter with Helen Macintyre, an arts consultant.
January 2010: Resignation as Chairman of MPA
Boris Johnson resigned as chairman of the Metropolitan Police Authority (MPA) in January 2010, although he remained a vocal supporter of the Metropolitan police.
2010: Mayor's Fund
By 2010, the Mayor's Fund, a charitable enterprise established by Boris Johnson to aid disadvantaged youths, had only earned 1.5 million pounds despite initial announcements of raising 100 million.
2010: Conservative Party Distances Itself from Johnson's Mayoral Administration
In the lead up to the 2010 general election, the Conservative Party initially distanced itself from Boris Johnson's administration as Mayor of London, fearing it could negatively impact their electoral chances.
2011: Occupy London Movement
Boris Johnson condemned the anti-capitalist Occupy London movement that emerged in 2011.
2011: London Riots
Boris Johnson was criticized for his response to the 2011 London riots, which brought a great deal of unrest to the city.
2011: Sonia Purnell's Depiction of Johnson's Personality
In her 2011 biography of Boris Johnson, Sonia Purnell described him as a "highly evasive figure" regarding his personal life, someone who maintained a degree of detachment and had few close friends.
2011: Rachel Johnson Leaves the Conservative Party
Rachel Johnson ended her membership with the Conservative Party in 2011, having been a member since 2008.
2012: Re-election Campaign and "Johnson's Life of London"
In 2012, during his re-election campaign, Boris Johnson published "Johnson's Life of London," a work of popular history. The book, released within the context of the campaign, was seen by some as a strategic move to garner support from voters.
2012: Tony Travers Analyzes Johnson's Political Identity
In 2012, political scientist Tony Travers characterized Boris Johnson as a "fairly classic—that is, small-state—mildly eurosceptic Conservative" who also embraced "modern social liberalism".
2012: Beginning of Alleged Affair with Jennifer Arcuri
Jennifer Arcuri claimed that her affair with Boris Johnson commenced in 2012.
2012: Boris Johnson Re-elected Mayor of London
Boris Johnson was re-elected as Mayor of London in 2012.
2012: "Boris Bikes" Launched, Providing Public Bicycle Scheme for London
Boris Johnson introduced a public bicycle sharing scheme in 2012, which became colloquially known as "Boris Bikes". The scheme, partially funded by private investment, faced financial losses but gained considerable popularity among Londoners.
2012: 2012 Summer Olympics
Boris Johnson served as board co-chair for the 2012 Summer Olympics in London, overseeing transportation improvements such as increased ticket availability and additional bus routes to accommodate the influx of visitors during the games.
November 2013: London Underground Changes
In November 2013, Boris Johnson announced a series of significant changes to the London Underground's operation, including the implementation of automated ticketing systems in place of staffed ticket offices and adjustments to operating hours.
November 2013: Transport for London Announces Closure of All Underground Ticket Offices by 2015
In a reversal of his previous stance, Boris Johnson's administration announced in November 2013 that all London Underground ticket offices would be closed by 2015.
2013: Starmer's Apology for CPS Handling of Savile Case
In 2013, Keir Starmer, then Director of Public Prosecutions, issued an apology for the Crown Prosecution Service's inadequate handling of the Jimmy Savile case. The apology acknowledged shortcomings in the CPS's investigation of Savile, which ultimately contributed to the failure to bring charges against the serial sex offender.
August 2014: Seeking Conservative Candidacy
In August 2014, Boris Johnson decided to seek the Conservative candidacy for the Uxbridge and South Ruislip constituency in the upcoming 2015 general election.
2015: Payment of US Capital Gains Tax
In 2015, Boris Johnson agreed to pay capital gains tax to US tax authorities on a property he inherited in the UK, fulfilling his tax obligations related to his dual citizenship status.
2015: Criticism of Donald Trump
In 2015, Boris Johnson publicly criticized then-presidential candidate Donald Trump for making false claims about "no-go zones" in London, deeming Trump's remarks as indicative of a "stupefying ignorance" that rendered him unfit for the presidency.
2015: All London Underground Ticket Offices Closed
By 2015, all London Underground ticket offices were closed, a controversial decision made under Boris Johnson's mayoral term.
2015: Elected to Parliament
Boris Johnson was elected as a Member of Parliament in the 2015 general election.
2015: Boris Johnson Elected MP for Uxbridge and South Ruislip
Boris Johnson was elected MP for Uxbridge and South Ruislip in the 2015 general election.
February 2016: Endorses Vote Leave
Boris Johnson announced his support for the "Vote Leave" campaign in the referendum on the UK's membership in the European Union, sending ripples through financial markets and contributing to a significant drop in the value of the pound sterling.
April 2016: Controversial Remarks about Obama
In April 2016, Boris Johnson sparked controversy by suggesting that President Barack Obama's stance on Britain remaining in the European Union might be influenced by an "ancestral dislike" stemming from his "part-Kenyan" heritage. These remarks drew sharp criticism from numerous politicians who condemned them as racially insensitive and inappropriate.
May 2016: End of Mayoral Term
Boris Johnson's second term as the mayor of London ended on May 5, 2016.
June 2016: "Britain's Independence Day"
On June 22, 2016, during a televised debate leading up to the Brexit referendum, Boris Johnson proclaimed June 23 as a potential "Britain's independence day."
July 2016: Appointment as Foreign Secretary
In July 2016, Theresa May, the then Prime Minister, appointed Boris Johnson as the Foreign Secretary. This move was seen by some political analysts as a strategic maneuver to diminish Johnson's political influence.
September 2016: Johnson Visits Turkey Amidst Controversy
In September 2016, Boris Johnson visited Turkey, facing scrutiny for winning an offensive poetry competition about President Erdogan four months prior. He dismissed the issue as "trivia", pledged support for Turkey's EU membership, and backed the government's stance on the Gülen movement and post-coup actions.
September 2016: Accusations of Blocking UN Inquiry into Saudi War Crimes
Human rights groups accused Boris Johnson in September 2016 of obstructing a UN investigation into potential war crimes committed by Saudi Arabia during the intervention in Yemen.
December 2016: Controversial Remarks on Saudi Arabia and Iran
In December 2016, despite the UK's alliance with Saudi Arabia, Boris Johnson sparked debate by stating that Saudi Arabia and Iran were engaging in similar tactics of "puppeteering and playing proxy wars".
2016: Resignation as MP and Brexit Backlash
Upon receiving a report on his actions regarding lockdown-breaking parties, Boris Johnson resigned as MP in 2016. He attributed the scrutiny to a "witch-hunt" fueled by Brexit.
2016: Concerns about Trump Presidency
In 2016, Boris Johnson expressed his apprehensions about the possibility of Donald Trump becoming president, revealing in an interview with ITV's Tom Bradby that being mistaken for Trump in New York City was one of his most unpleasant experiences.
2016: Boris Johnson Becomes Foreign Secretary
Boris Johnson was appointed Foreign Secretary in 2016 after the Brexit referendum.
2016: End of Alleged Affair with Jennifer Arcuri
According to Jennifer Arcuri, her alleged affair with Boris Johnson concluded in 2016.
April 2017: Reassurance on Gibraltar's Sovereignty Post-Brexit
In April 2017, Boris Johnson asserted that the sovereignty of Gibraltar would remain "unchanged" following Brexit.
September 2017: Visit to Hurricane-Ravaged British Territories and Kipling Poem Controversy
Boris Johnson visited Anguilla and Tortola in September 2017, pledging UK support for hurricane recovery. However, he faced criticism for reciting Rudyard Kipling's poem "Mandalay" at a Myanmar temple, deemed "inappropriate" by the British ambassador.
September 2017: Reiteration of £350m Weekly NHS Funding Post-Brexit
In September 2017, Boris Johnson reiterated the claim that the UK would regain control of £350 million weekly after Brexit, proposing it be allocated to the NHS. This reignited the debate and drew criticism from cabinet colleagues.
October 2017: Controversial Remarks on Libyan City of Sirte
Boris Johnson sparked criticism in October 2017 for stating that the Libyan city of Sirte could achieve economic success similar to Dubai, adding that "all they have to do is clear the dead bodies away".
November 2017: Defense of Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe's Journalism Work
Boris Johnson defended Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe in November 2017, stating she was "simply teaching people journalism" when arrested in Iran. Facing backlash, he claimed misquotation and clarified his words didn't justify her detention.
2017: Rachel Johnson Joins the Liberal Democrats
After leaving the Conservative Party in 2011, Rachel Johnson joined the Liberal Democrats in 2017.
February 2018: Suggestion of Potential Border Controls in Northern Ireland Post-Brexit
Contradicting earlier statements, Boris Johnson suggested in February 2018 that Northern Ireland might have to accept border controls after Brexit, downplaying potential trade disruptions.
March 2018: Comparison of Putin's World Cup Hosting to Hitler's Olympics
Following the poisoning of Sergei and Yulia Skripal in March 2018, which the UK attributed to Russia, Boris Johnson drew a parallel between Vladimir Putin hosting the World Cup to Adolf Hitler hosting the 1936 Olympics in Berlin. This comparison drew strong condemnation from Russia.
April 2018: Unreported Trip to Former KGB Agent's Villa in Italy
In April 2018, Boris Johnson attended a party at a villa owned by former KGB agent Alexander Lebedev in Italy, traveling without security or officials. The undisclosed trip raised concerns about potential security breaches and misleading parliament.
May 2018: Support for Iran Nuclear Deal Framework
Boris Johnson expressed support for the Iran nuclear deal framework in May 2018, even though former US President Donald Trump had decided to withdraw from it.
June 2018: Leaked Recordings Reveal Criticism of May's Brexit Approach
Secret recordings released in June 2018 exposed Boris Johnson's dissatisfaction with Theresa May's Brexit negotiation style, deeming it too accommodating to the EU. He suggested a more assertive approach, referencing Donald Trump's tactics.
July 2018: Resignation as Foreign Secretary Over Brexit Disagreements
Boris Johnson resigned from his position as Foreign Secretary in July 2018, three days after the cabinet agreed on a Brexit strategy. His resignation alongside Brexit secretary David Davis highlighted the deep divisions within the government over Brexit.
July 2018: Breach of Ministerial Code Over Telegraph Articles Contract
In July 2018, Boris Johnson signed a contract to write articles for the Telegraph Media Group, which the Advisory Committee on Business Appointments (ACOBA) deemed a violation of the Ministerial Code. He was instructed to apologize for failing to disclose £50,000 in earnings.
September 2018: Separation from Marina Wheeler
Boris Johnson and his then-wife, Marina Wheeler, announced their separation in September 2018, stating that the decision had been made months prior.
September 2018: "Suicide Vest" Analogy Sparks Backlash from Senior Tories
Boris Johnson's September 2018 article comparing the UK's Brexit negotiations to wearing a "suicide vest" drew fierce condemnation from senior Conservatives, with some calling for his political demise.
2018: Origin of the False Claim Linking Starmer to Savile Non-Prosecution
The false claim connecting Keir Starmer to the Crown Prosecution Service's failure to prosecute Jimmy Savile emerged in 2018 on the right-wing Guido Fawkes blog. This unfounded claim, with no basis in fact, alleged that Starmer, during his time as Director of Public Prosecutions, was responsible for the decision not to pursue charges against Savile.
2018: Call for Departure from Single Market and Liberal Immigration Approach
During Brexit negotiations in 2018, Johnson called for Britain to leave the EU's Single Market and advocated for a more liberal approach to immigration than that of then-Prime Minister Theresa May.
2018: Boris Johnson Resigns as Foreign Secretary
Boris Johnson resigned as Foreign Secretary in 2018 in protest of the Chequers Agreement and Theresa May's approach to Brexit.
2018: Classification as Obese
In 2018, Johnson was classified as obese, raising concerns about his health and prompting discussions about his weight management efforts.
March 2019: Controversial Remarks on Child Abuse Investigation Funding
Boris Johnson drew criticism in March 2019 for describing spending on investigating historical child abuse allegations as "money spaffed up the wall." The remarks were widely condemned as insensitive and dismissive of the issue.
April 2019: Independent Press Standards Organisation Ruling on No-Deal Brexit Claim
In April 2019, the Independent Press Standards Organisation (IPSO) ruled that a claim made by Boris Johnson in a January 2019 Daily Telegraph article about public support for a no-deal Brexit was inaccurate. The article, titled "The British people won't be scared into backing a woeful Brexit deal nobody voted for", was found to have breached IPSO's guidelines on accuracy.
June 2019: Boris Johnson Launches Conservative Party Leadership Bid
In June 2019, Boris Johnson launched his campaign to become leader of the Conservative Party. He pledged to deliver Brexit by October 31st, with or without a deal, and to remove the Irish backstop from the withdrawal agreement. He also initially promised to cut income tax for higher earners, but later abandoned this plan.
July 2019: Purchase of Townhouse with Carrie Symonds
Boris Johnson, alongside his then-girlfriend Carrie Symonds, purchased a £1.3 million buy-to-let townhouse in Camberwell, South London, in July 2019, adding to his property portfolio.
July 2019: Allegations Against Pincher During Time at Foreign Office
Allegations of misconduct against Chris Pincher surfaced concerning his time at the Foreign Office from July 2019 to February 2020. These allegations, which predated his appointment as Deputy Chief Whip, were the subject of an official complaint and subsequent investigation that confirmed Pincher's inappropriate behavior.
July 2019: Johnson Expresses Pro-China Stance and Support for Belt and Road Initiative
In July 2019, during an interview with Hong Kong's Phoenix TV, Boris Johnson expressed a "pro-China" stance for his government, emphasizing a desire for strong bilateral relations. He voiced support for China's Belt and Road Initiative, a global infrastructure development strategy, and pledged to maintain the United Kingdom's openness to Chinese investment.
July 2019: Boris Johnson's Cabinet Appointments and Dismissals
On July 24th, 2019, Boris Johnson announced his new Cabinet, marking a significant reshuffle. He dismissed eleven senior ministers and accepted the resignations of six others. This extensive reorganization was considered the most substantial in the postwar period without a change in the ruling party.
July 2019: Boris Johnson Becomes Prime Minister
On July 24, 2019, Boris Johnson became Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, succeeding Theresa May. His appointment marked the first time a Prime Minister was born outside of the British Isles. In his inaugural speech, Johnson reiterated his commitment to withdrawing from the European Union by October 31st, with or without a deal, and pledged to remove the Irish backstop.
August 2019: Request for Backstop Removal and Dispute Over Withdrawal Payment
In August 2019, Johnson wrote to the EU requesting the removal of the "backstop" accord, a proposal that was rejected. He also stated that Britain wouldn't pay the full £39 billion withdrawal fee if there was no deal, leading to further disputes.
August 2019: UK and EU Agree to Resume Brexit Negotiations
On August 28th, 2019, negotiators from the UK and EU agreed to resume regular meetings concerning Brexit.
August 2019: Boris Johnson Prorogues Parliament
On August 28, 2019, Boris Johnson made the controversial decision to prorogue Parliament, starting on September 10th. This move, intended to limit the time Parliament had to block a no-deal Brexit, sparked accusations of a power grab and triggered protests across the UK. Legal challenges were immediately mounted against the prorogation.
September 2019: Jo Johnson's Resignation from Government
Jo Johnson, Boris Johnson's brother, resigned from his position as a government minister in September 2019. He later became a member of the House of Lords.
September 2019: Government Loses Working Majority and Conservative MPs Rebel
On September 3rd, 2019, Phillip Lee defected from the Conservatives to the Liberal Democrats, costing Johnson's government its working majority in the House of Commons. The same day, 21 Conservative MPs were disciplined for defying the party whip by supporting an opposition motion. Though the whip was later restored to ten former ministers in October.
September 2019: Legal Challenges to Prorogation and Supreme Court Ruling
Throughout September 2019, Boris Johnson faced multiple legal challenges and public outcry over his decision to prorogue Parliament. On September 11th, a Scottish court ruled the prorogation unlawful, followed by the UK Supreme Court's unanimous ruling on September 24th that the prorogation was unlawful, voiding it.
September 2019: Parliament Resumes and the Benn Act
When Parliament resumed on September 3rd, 2019, Johnson's government faced immediate challenges. Opposition MPs and rebel Conservatives voted to take control of parliamentary proceedings to prevent a no-deal Brexit, prompting Johnson to threaten a general election. Despite government opposition, the Benn Act, designed to block a no-deal Brexit, passed the House of Commons on September 4th. Johnson's subsequent proposal for a general election on October 15th failed to gain the necessary two-thirds majority.
September 2019: Allegations of Conflict of Interest
In September 2019, The Sunday Times published a report alleging that Boris Johnson had failed to disclose a potential conflict of interest regarding his relationship with American entrepreneur Jennifer Arcuri during his time as Mayor of London.
September 2019: Resignations of Jo Johnson and Amber Rudd
September 2019 saw further high-profile resignations from Boris Johnson's government. On September 5th, Jo Johnson, the Prime Minister's brother, stepped down from his ministerial role and announced his intention to leave Parliament, citing the conflict between "family and national interest." Two days later, Amber Rudd resigned as Secretary of State for Work and Pensions and quit the Conservative Party, condemning the removal of the party whip from rebel MPs as an "assault on decency and democracy."
October 2019: UK and EU Reach Revised Brexit Deal
In October 2019, after direct discussions between Boris Johnson and Irish Taoiseach Leo Varadkar, the UK and EU agreed on a revised Brexit deal. This new agreement replaced the controversial Irish backstop with the Northern Ireland Protocol.
October 2019: Parliament Dissolved and December Election Called
In October 2019, Parliament was dissolved, paving the way for a general election scheduled for December 12th.
October 2019: Boris Johnson's First Speech as PM and Brexit Negotiations
In his first speech as Prime Minister, Boris Johnson reiterated his commitment to taking the UK out of the European Union by October 31st, 2019, with or without a deal. He pledged to remove the Irish backstop from the withdrawal agreement. Johnson stated his intention to renegotiate the deal, but talks did not restart immediately as the EU refused to consider removing the backstop.
November 2019: IOPC Announces Report Publication
On November 9, 2019, it was revealed that the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) had decided to publish its report on the allegations surrounding Boris Johnson and Jennifer Arcuri after the general election scheduled for December 12.
December 2019: Boris Johnson Wins Snap General Election
Boris Johnson called a snap general election in December 2019 which the Conservative Party won.
2019: Comparisons to Trumpism and Liberal Stances
In 2019, commentators drew comparisons between Johnson's political style and Trumpism, while others argued that Johnson's stance on issues such as social policy, immigration, and free trade aligned with liberal perspectives.
2019: Relationship with Carrie Symonds and Engagement
In 2019, Boris Johnson began living with Carrie Symonds. The couple got engaged later that year.
2019: Support for Net-Zero Emissions
Boris Johnson expressed support for the UK achieving "net-zero" greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 in 2019, highlighting his commitment to climate change mitigation.
2019: Commitment to Brexit Deadline and Opposition to Referendum
Boris Johnson declared in 2019 that he would lead Britain out of the EU by October 31st, with or without a trade deal, and expressed his opposition to another referendum on the Brexit withdrawal agreement.
2019: Boris Johnson Becomes Prime Minister
Boris Johnson became Prime Minister of the United Kingdom and Leader of the Conservative Party in 2019.
2019: Allegations of Inappropriate Behavior Resurface
Allegations of inappropriate behavior by Boris Johnson resurfaced in 2019 when journalist Charlotte Edwardes accused him of touching her inappropriately at a private lunch in 1999. These allegations, which Johnson denied, raised questions about his past conduct.
January 2020: Briefing by Met Office Chief Scientist
In January 2020, Boris Johnson received a briefing by the chief scientist of the Met Office on climate change, which reportedly solidified his belief in the scientific consensus on the issue.
January 2020: Brexit and Trade Negotiations
Following the UK's formal withdrawal from the European Union in January 2020, Johnson's government began trade negotiations with the EU, with fisheries being a key point of contention.
February 2020: Boris Johnson's Cabinet Reshuffle
In February 2020, Boris Johnson reshuffled his cabinet, dismissing five ministers, including Northern Ireland secretary Julian Smith. This decision drew criticism due to Smith's success in restoring the Northern Ireland Executive. Chancellor Sajid Javid resigned and was replaced by Rishi Sunak.
February 2020: Conclusion of Investigation into Pincher's Conduct at Foreign Office
By February 2020, the investigation into Chris Pincher's conduct during his tenure at the Foreign Office had concluded, confirming the allegations of misconduct against him. This timeline became significant as it emerged that Boris Johnson had been made aware of the investigation and its findings, raising questions about his judgment in subsequently appointing Pincher to a position of authority.
March 2020: Dominic Cummings' Lockdown Trip
In March 2020, as the UK went into lockdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Dominic Cummings, Boris Johnson's chief political advisor, made a trip to Durham with his family while experiencing COVID-19 symptoms.
March 2020: COVID-19 Lockdown Imposed
On March 3, 2020, despite SAGE advice to minimize physical contact, Boris Johnson publicly stated he had shaken hands with COVID-19 patients. However, it was unclear if the hospital he visited actually had coronavirus patients. By March 23, 2020, the UK imposed a nationwide lockdown, except for essential activities, supported by new legal measures, in response to the escalating COVID-19 pandemic.
April 2020: Birth of Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas Johnson
Boris Johnson and Carrie Symonds' first child together, Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas Johnson, was born in April 2020.
May 2020: Dominic Cummings Scandal and Backlash
In May 2020, a major scandal erupted involving Dominic Cummings, Boris Johnson's chief advisor. Cummings had traveled to Durham during the March 2020 lockdown while displaying COVID-19 symptoms, sparking public outrage. Despite widespread calls for his resignation, both Cummings and Johnson defended his actions, further fueling public anger. This incident, dubbed "the Cummings effect" by The Lancet, led to a loss of trust in the government's pandemic response, raising concerns about public adherence to restrictions.
May 2020: "Bring Your Own Booze" Garden Party
On May 20, 2020, during the UK's first COVID-19 lockdown, a gathering took place in the Downing Street garden. An email invitation was later revealed, inviting staff to "socially distanced drinks," despite restrictions limiting outdoor gatherings. Witnesses later claimed Johnson and his wife, Carrie Symonds, attended this gathering.
May 2020: IOPC Report Findings
The IOPC released its report in May 2020, concluding that while there were no grounds for criminal charges against Boris Johnson, there was evidence suggesting that his close relationship with Jennifer Arcuri may have influenced certain decisions during his tenure as Mayor of London.
June 2020: Potential Breach of COVID Regulations
In May 2023, it came to light that Boris Johnson was under investigation for potential breaches of COVID regulations between June 2020 and May 2021.
October 2020: Allegations of Johnson's Remarks on Lockdown and Second National Lockdown
In October 2020, allegations surfaced that Boris Johnson made controversial remarks about letting "bodies pile high" rather than implementing another lockdown. Johnson denied these claims in April 2021. Despite his reported resistance to lockdown measures, a second national lockdown was enacted on October 31st, 2020, as COVID-19 cases surged in the UK.
October 2020: Criticism of UK's Test and Trace System
In October 2020, Boris Johnson admitted that the UK's COVID-19 test and trace system, along with its contact tracing app, had caused "frustrations" due to their high cost and operational challenges.
October 2020: Boris Johnson Prepares for "No Deal" Brexit
By October 2020, tensions in the trade negotiations rose, and Boris Johnson stated that the UK "must get ready" for a no-deal Brexit.
November 2020: Johnson Announces 10-Point Plan for Green Industrial Revolution
In November 2020, Boris Johnson unveiled an ambitious 10-point plan aimed at propelling the UK towards a "green industrial revolution." This plan outlined key targets, including phasing out petrol and diesel car sales by 2030, significantly expanding offshore wind power capacity, and investing in emissions-reducing initiatives. Notably, the plan signaled a shift away from a green post-COVID-19 recovery, indicating Johnson's commitment to tackling climate change.
December 2020: UK Begins COVID-19 Vaccination Program
The UK initiated its COVID-19 vaccination program in December 2020, marking a significant step in combating the pandemic.
December 2020: EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement
After months of negotiations, the EU and UK reached a trade and cooperation agreement in December 2020, coming into effect in May of the following year.
December 2020: Rising COVID-19 Cases and Restrictions
Throughout December 2020, the UK saw a substantial increase in COVID-19 cases, putting immense strain on healthcare systems and emergency services. In response, the UK government implemented stricter restrictions across southern and eastern England, and on December 21st, curtailed the period for household mixing over Christmas.
2020: Categorization as Overweight
Boris Johnson was categorized as overweight in 2020, indicating continued challenges in maintaining a healthy weight despite previous efforts.
2020: Divorce from Marina Wheeler
Boris Johnson and Marina Wheeler officially divorced in 2020, finalizing their separation that was announced two years prior.
2020: Downing Street Party Allegations Emerge
In late 2021, reports surfaced about social gatherings held at Downing Street in the lead-up to Christmas 2020, allegedly violating COVID-19 regulations in place at the time. These allegations sparked public outrage and led to calls for investigations.
2020: Increased Ambition for Climate Action
In 2020, Johnson spoke about increasing ambition for mitigating climate change through carbon capture and storage and a renewable energy transition, furthering his climate agenda.
2020: Baptism of Son Wilfred
Boris Johnson's son, Wilfred, was baptized Catholic in 2020, reflecting the religious upbringing chosen for him.
2020: Peerage Granted to Evgeny Lebedev Amidst Security Concerns
Boris Johnson faced scrutiny for granting a peerage to Evgeny Lebedev, son of Alexander Lebedev, in 2020, despite advice from MI6. The decision raised concerns about potential security risks due to Lebedev's family background.
January 2021: Third Lockdown and UK Surpasses 100,000 COVID-19 Deaths
Amidst a surge in COVID-19 infections and deaths, England entered its third national lockdown on January 6th, 2021. On January 26th, the UK reached the grim milestone of surpassing 100,000 COVID-19 deaths, becoming the first European nation to do so. Johnson expressed his deep sorrow and took responsibility for this tragic milestone.
January 2021: Criticism of COVID-19 Response
By January 2021, the UK's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic under Boris Johnson's leadership faced significant criticism. Concerns were raised about the government's preparedness and early response to the outbreak, including Johnson's absence from five COBR meetings in the initial months. The UK's delayed implementation of measures like school closures, bans on public events, and lockdowns, compared to other European nations, drew scrutiny, with some scientists linking it to the country's high COVID-19 death toll, which was among the world's highest at that time.
March 2021: Vaccination Milestone: Half of UK Adults Receive First Dose
By March 20th, 2021, a significant milestone was reached as half of all adults in the UK had received their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.
April 2021: Denial of "Bodies Pile High" Allegations
In April 2021, Boris Johnson refuted claims that he made insensitive remarks about preferring deaths to another lockdown in October 2020.
April 2021: Downing Street Refurbishment Scandal and Investigation
In April 2021, allegations surfaced that Boris Johnson used funds from donors to finance renovations of his Downing Street residence, prompting accusations of impropriety. Johnson denied any wrongdoing and maintained he complied with all regulations. However, the controversy led to a Cabinet Secretary review and a formal investigation by the Electoral Commission.
May 2021: Marriage to Carrie Symonds
On May 29, 2021, Boris Johnson and Carrie Symonds wed at Westminster Cathedral.
May 2021: State Opening of Parliament and Proposed Legislation
During the State Opening of Parliament on May 11th, 2021, a series of proposed laws were announced. These included measures such as restoring the royal prerogative to dissolve Parliament, combating deplatforming at universities, enhancing online safety regulations, legally recognizing animal sentience, introducing mandatory voter identification, reforming immigration policies, and implementing a leveling-up policy to address regional imbalances.
May 2021: Potential Breach of COVID Regulations
In May 2023, it came to light that Boris Johnson was under investigation for potential breaches of COVID regulations between June 2020 and May 2021.
May 2021: Marriage to Carrie Symonds in Catholic Ceremony
Johnson and Carrie Symonds were married in a Catholic ceremony at Westminster Cathedral on May 29, 2021, marking a significant personal event for the couple.
June 2021: Sajid Javid Returns to Cabinet
In June 2021, Sajid Javid returned to Boris Johnson's cabinet as Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, succeeding Matt Hancock.
July 2021: British Troop Withdrawal from Afghanistan
In July 2021, Boris Johnson expressed his belief that there was "no military path to victory for the Taliban" while announcing the near completion of British troop withdrawal from Afghanistan.
July 2021: Lifting of COVID-19 Restrictions in England
In July 2021, Boris Johnson announced the lifting of most public health restrictions in England, replacing them with recommendations. This decision was made despite a surge in COVID-19 cases, primarily driven by the Delta variant.
September 2021: Johnson Denies Existence of Further Illegitimate Children
In September 2021, Boris Johnson publicly acknowledged having six children, a statement that indirectly denied the existence of any further children beyond those officially recognized.
September 2021: Johnson Criticized for Contradicting COVID-19 Guidance
Boris Johnson faced criticism in September 2021 after a photo emerged of him at a cabinet meeting with over 30 people in close proximity, none wearing masks, and windows seemingly closed. This contradicted the government's own COVID-19 guidance.
September 2021: Cabinet Reshuffle and Key Changes
Boris Johnson initiated another cabinet reshuffle in September 2021. Notably, Education Secretary Gavin Williamson was dismissed following criticism over his handling of disruptions to education during the COVID-19 pandemic. Dominic Raab was moved from Foreign Secretary to Deputy Prime Minister and Justice Secretary, with Liz Truss taking over as Foreign Secretary.
November 2021: Owen Paterson Scandal and Conservative Backlash
Boris Johnson faced a significant backlash in November 2021 after attempting to block the suspension of Conservative MP Owen Paterson, who was found guilty of lobbying violations. The move was widely condemned as cronyism, leading to a government U-turn and Paterson's resignation. The subsequent by-election defeat in Paterson's former constituency signaled public disapproval and dealt a blow to Johnson's authority.
December 2021: Johnson Denies Party Allegations
In December 2021, Boris Johnson denied that any parties took place at Downing Street during the COVID-19 lockdowns, contradicting emerging evidence and witness accounts.
December 2021: Downing Street Christmas Party Scandal and Johnson's Apology
In December 2021, reports about Christmas parties held at Downing Street in 2020, while the UK was under strict COVID-19 restrictions, sparked outrage. Initially, Johnson denied the allegations. However, after a leaked video showed Downing Street staff joking about a "fictional party" that seemed to confirm the events, Johnson apologized. He maintained he had been misled about the gatherings and launched an inquiry into the matter.
December 2021: Plan B Restrictions and Conservative Rebellion
In December 2021, the UK government introduced stricter "Plan B" restrictions in England to combat the spread of the Omicron variant. These measures, which included mandatory face coverings in more settings, work-from-home guidance, and COVID-19 passports for certain venues, faced significant opposition. The proposal resulted in the largest rebellion of Conservative MPs against Johnson's leadership, highlighting the growing discontent within his own party.
December 2021: Birth of Romy Iris Charlotte Johnson
Boris Johnson and Carrie Symonds welcomed their second child together, a daughter named Romy Iris Charlotte Johnson, in December 2021.
2021: Government Announces Plans for Significant Carbon Emission Reduction
In 2021, building upon the 10-point plan, the Johnson government announced ambitious targets to cut carbon emissions by 78% by 2035, compared to 1990 levels. This commitment demonstrated the UK's dedication to addressing climate change and positioned the country as a leader in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
2021: Johnson's Views on Christianity and Secular Humanism
In 2021, Johnson expressed a complex perspective on religion, stating that while he admires Christianity as an ethical system and identifies as a "very, very bad Christian," he also views secular humanism positively and sees it as rooted in classical thought.
2021: Call for Global Climate Efforts
During the 2021 United Nations Climate Change Conference, Johnson advocated for greater global efforts towards climate change mitigation, emphasizing the importance of international collaboration.
January 2022: Downing Street Garden Party Revelation and Johnson's Shifting Account
In January 2022, ITV News revealed details of a garden party held at Downing Street on May 20, 2020, during the first COVID-19 lockdown. The leaked email invitation, along with eyewitness accounts alleging Johnson's presence, contradicted his previous denials of parties taking place.
January 2022: Johnson Admits Attending Downing Street Gathering and Faces Resignation Calls
On January 12, 2022, Boris Johnson apologized to Parliament for attending a gathering in the Downing Street garden during the first COVID-19 lockdown in May 2020. However, he maintained his stance that he believed it was a "work event." Despite calls for his resignation from across the House of Commons, he insisted on awaiting the outcome of Sue Gray's independent inquiry into the Downing Street gatherings.
January 2022: False Accusation Against Keir Starmer Regarding Jimmy Savile
In January 2022, during a session in the House of Commons, Boris Johnson made a false claim, accusing Keir Starmer of being responsible for the failure to prosecute serial sex offender Jimmy Savile during Starmer's tenure as Director of Public Prosecutions. Despite no evidence to support this claim, which originated from a right-wing blog, Johnson's accusation sparked significant criticism, leading to the resignation of his policy adviser, Munira Mirza. While Johnson later acknowledged that Starmer had no personal involvement in the decisions surrounding Savile's case, the incident drew criticism from prominent figures, including Conservative members, who called for an apology.
February 2022: Diplomatic Efforts and Warnings on Ukraine
During the 2021-2022 Russo-Ukrainian crisis, Boris Johnson engaged in diplomatic efforts while also issuing warnings about the possibility of a large-scale conflict.
April 2022: Johnson Issued Fixed Penalty Notice for Lockdown Breach
In a historic event, Boris Johnson became the first British Prime Minister to be sanctioned for breaking the law while in office. He received a fixed penalty notice in April 2022 for violating COVID-19 lockdown regulations.
April 2022: Johnson Announces Plans for Nuclear and Wind Energy Expansion
In April 2022, Boris Johnson outlined plans to bolster the UK's energy security and transition to cleaner sources by announcing the construction of eight new nuclear reactors and advocating for increased wind energy production. These measures, part of a broader strategy to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, aimed to ensure that up to 95% of the UK's electricity would be generated from low-carbon sources by 2030.
April 2022: Boris Johnson Issued Fixed Penalty Notice
Boris Johnson was issued a fixed penalty notice in April 2022 for breaching COVID-19 social distancing laws during the Partygate scandal.
May 2022: Local Election Losses and Calls for Johnson's Resignation
Following the May 2022 local elections, where the Conservative Party suffered significant losses, pressure mounted on Boris Johnson to resign. Prominent Conservatives, particularly in areas where the party performed poorly, blamed Johnson's leadership for the electoral setback.
May 2022: Composition of the Government Before Resignations
As of May 2022, prior to the wave of resignations that would rock Boris Johnson's government, the government consisted of 122 ministers. This number, representing the various departments and ministerial positions within the UK government, highlights the scale of the exodus that followed the Chris Pincher scandal, with over a quarter of ministers ultimately resigning.
May 2022: Sue Gray Report Published
The Sue Gray report, which investigated gatherings at government offices during COVID-19 lockdowns in the United Kingdom, was published in May 2022.
June 2022: Boris Johnson Wins Vote of Confidence
Boris Johnson won a vote of confidence in his leadership amongst Conservative MPs in June 2022.
June 2022: Calls for Resignation Following By-Election Defeats
Following significant defeats for the Conservative Party in the Wakefield and Tiverton and Honiton by-elections in June 2022, former party leader Michael Howard added his voice to the growing chorus calling for Boris Johnson's resignation. Howard cited Johnson's waning ability to secure votes, a significant blow to a leader whose appeal had long been rooted in his electoral success.
June 2022: Vote of Confidence in Johnson's Leadership
In June 2022, amidst growing speculation and following a series of scandals, Boris Johnson faced a vote of confidence in his leadership of the Conservative Party. Triggered by a significant number of Conservative MPs submitting letters of no confidence to the 1922 Committee, the vote resulted in Johnson narrowly securing his position as party leader. Despite the win, the number of MPs voting against him was substantial, raising questions about the long-term viability of his premiership.
June 2022: Resignation and Sexual Assault Allegations Against Chris Pincher
In a scandal that would further erode Boris Johnson's authority, Deputy Chief Whip Chris Pincher resigned in June 2022 following allegations of sexual assault. Pincher initially attributed his resignation to excessive drinking and inappropriate behavior at the Carlton Club in London but was subsequently suspended from Parliament as accusations of sexual assault against two men surfaced. This incident marked the beginning of a series of revelations that would cast a long shadow over Johnson's leadership.
June 2022: Resignation of Oliver Dowden and Johnson's Refusal to Step Down
June 2022 saw a further escalation of pressure on Boris Johnson's leadership as Oliver Dowden, the Co-Chairman of the Conservative Party, resigned, stating that "somebody must take responsibility" for the ongoing turmoil. Despite mounting calls for his resignation, Johnson remained defiant, asserting his intention to stay on as Prime Minister and even suggesting his aspirations for a third term, a statement later downplayed as a joke. This refusal to acknowledge the gravity of the situation led to accusations of "delusional" behaviour from within his own party.
July 2022: Emergence of Additional Misconduct Allegations Against Pincher
In July 2022, as Boris Johnson grappled with the fallout from Chris Pincher's resignation, six new allegations of sexual misconduct against Pincher came to light, encompassing a period of over a decade. These revelations raised serious questions about what Johnson knew about Pincher's behavior before appointing him to a position of power and further fueled calls for Johnson's resignation.
July 2022: Boris Johnson Announces Resignation as Prime Minister
Revelations over Boris Johnson's appointment of Chris Pincher as deputy chief whip while knowing of sexual misconduct allegations led to him announcing his resignation as prime minister in July 2022.
July 2022: Mass Resignations from Johnson's Government
In July 2022, the Chris Pincher scandal reached a tipping point, triggering a wave of resignations from Boris Johnson's government. Key figures, including Chancellor Rishi Sunak and Health Secretary Sajid Javid, resigned in quick succession, followed by numerous other ministers and parliamentary private secretaries. This mass exodus, driven by the perception that Johnson had mishandled the Pincher affair and had lost the moral authority to lead, plunged his government into crisis and cast serious doubt on his ability to remain in power.
July 2022: Ceasefire Warning and Criticism of Putin
Boris Johnson warned against a ceasefire in Ukraine in July 2022, and in the following month, he attributed blame to Vladimir Putin for the global energy crisis.
August 2022: Global Energy Crisis
In August 2022, a global energy crisis emerged, influenced by various factors including geopolitical events.
September 2022: Liz Truss Elected as Conservative Leader, Johnson Steps Down
In September 2022, Liz Truss emerged victorious from the Conservative leadership election, succeeding Boris Johnson as Prime Minister. Johnson, forced to resign after a series of scandals and a loss of confidence from within his own party, delivered a farewell speech outside 10 Downing Street, invoking the Roman statesman Cincinnatus, who famously returned to power after a period of retirement.
October 2022: Conservative Party Leadership Election
After Liz Truss resigned as Conservative Party leader, Boris Johnson considered running in the leadership election but decided against it.
2022: UK Border Check Delays
The introduction of new UK border checks after Brexit was delayed until 2022 to minimize disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
2022: Johnson's Foreign Policy Initiatives and Controversial Asylum Deal
Throughout 2022, Boris Johnson's foreign policy focused on key areas, including support for the European Union–Mercosur Free Trade Agreement, strengthening the "Special Relationship" with the United States, and introducing a controversial asylum deal with Rwanda. This deal, aimed at deterring illegal immigration, drew criticism for potentially violating international law and raising human rights concerns.
2022: Voting Record on Climate Change Measures
According to TheyWorkForYou in 2022, Johnson "generally voted against" what it described as "key measures to prevent climate change" during his time as an MP.
2022: Reports of Johnson's Climate Change Conviction
Reports emerged in 2022 stating that Johnson became convinced of the scientific consensus on climate change following the briefing by the Met Office chief scientist in January 2020.
2022: Prime Minister's Resignation Honours
The Prime Minister's Resignation Honours are traditionally given out by outgoing Prime Ministers in the UK.
2022: Boris Johnson Resigns as Prime Minister
Boris Johnson resigned as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom and Leader of the Conservative Party in 2022.
March 2023: Interim Report on Potential Breaches of Coronavirus Regulations
In March 2023, an interim report by the Commons Select Committee of Privileges suggested that Johnson may have breached coronavirus regulations, with evidence indicating that such breaches would have been "obvious" to him. The report also highlighted that those advising Johnson on addressing the press and Parliament struggled to reconcile certain gatherings with the rules. Johnson, however, maintained that no evidence proved he "knowingly" misled Parliament, despite the report stating that the Commons may have been misled on multiple occasions and that Johnson did not correct his statements promptly. The committee also pointed out Johnson's "personal knowledge" of lockdown gatherings at No 10, which he could have disclosed.
June 2023: Revelation About Lack of Awareness of Italy Trip by Senior Official
It was revealed in June 2023 that Lord Simon McDonald, the top civil servant in Boris Johnson's department at the time, was unaware of Johnson's 2018 trip to the Lebedev villa in Italy. Johnson maintained that no government business was discussed at the event.
June 2023: Boris Johnson Resigns as MP
Boris Johnson resigned from his position as MP in June 2023 after receiving the draft of the Commons Privileges Committee investigation into his conduct that found that he had lied to the Commons.
June 2023: Resignation Honours and Public Feud
The publication of Boris Johnson's 2022 Prime Minister's Resignation Honours in June 2023 sparked a public disagreement with Rishi Sunak.
July 2023: Birth of Frank Alfred Odysseus Johnson
Boris Johnson and Carrie Symonds' third child, a son named Frank Alfred Odysseus Johnson, was born in July 2023.
October 2023: Joining GB News
Boris Johnson announced his decision to join GB News as a commentator and program maker in October 2023.
2023: Acquisition of Brightwell Manor
Johnson and Symonds bought Brightwell Manor, a £3.8 million moated mansion in Oxfordshire, in 2023, marking a significant property acquisition.
2023: Return to Road Running
In 2023, Johnson returned to road running, suggesting a renewed focus on physical fitness and potentially signaling a commitment to a healthier lifestyle.
2023: Boris Johnson Resigns from Parliament
Boris Johnson resigned from his position as MP for Uxbridge and South Ruislip in 2023 after receiving the draft of the Commons Privileges Committee investigation into his conduct.
February 2024: Meeting with Nicolás Maduro
Boris Johnson had a private meeting with the President of Venezuela, Nicolás Maduro, in February 2024.
March 2024: Potential Conservative Campaigning
Reports emerged in March 2024 suggesting that Boris Johnson was expected to participate in campaigning for the Conservative party in the upcoming General Election.
May 2024: Polling Station Incident
In May 2024, Boris Johnson was initially turned away from a polling station for lacking proper identification, a requirement he himself had introduced through the Elections Act.
2030: Target for Phasing Out Petrol and Diesel Car Sales in the UK
As part of Boris Johnson's 10-point plan for a green industrial revolution, 2030 was set as the target date for ending the sale of new petrol and diesel cars and vans in the UK. This ambitious goal aimed to accelerate the transition to electric vehicles and reduce the country's reliance on fossil fuels in the transportation sector.
2030: UK Joins Global Methane Pledge with 30% Reduction Target
At the COP26 climate summit hosted by the UK, Boris Johnson announced the country's commitment to the Global Methane Pledge, aiming to slash methane emissions by 30% by 2030. This pledge, made alongside numerous other nations, underscored the importance of addressing methane, a potent greenhouse gas, in global efforts to combat climate change.
2030: Target for 95% Low-Carbon Electricity Generation
The year 2030 was set as the target for the UK to achieve a significant milestone in its energy transition, with plans to generate up to 95% of its electricity from low-carbon sources. This ambitious goal, announced by Boris Johnson, highlighted the country's commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and embracing renewable and nuclear energy sources.
2035: Target Year for 78% Reduction in Carbon Emissions
The year 2035 was established as the target for achieving a 78% reduction in carbon emissions in the UK, based on 1990 levels. This ambitious goal, set by the Johnson government, reflected the urgency of addressing climate change and demonstrated a commitment to transitioning towards a more sustainable future.