'Well it’s not exactly a job': Is Boris Johnson disgruntled with David Cameron already?
Mayor of London also described his new role in David Cameron's 'Political Cabinet' as a 'zero-hours' contract - mocking one of Ed Miliband's main policies
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Was Boris Johnson disappointed not to be given a ministerial role in David Cameron’s new Government?
He was appointed to attend Mr Cameron’s “Political Cabinet” – meaning he will be invited to the tactical meetings of the Conservative party but not the full Government Cabinet. The Prime Minister said this would enable Mr Johnson to “devote his attention to his final year as Mayor of London”.
But when asked by The Independent whether he was happy with his new role, Mr Johnson replied: “Well it’s not exactly a job, is it,” striking a rather disgruntled tone.
And later in the day he invited criticism for jokingly describing his new job as a "zero-hours contract" - a controversial working arrangement that Ed Miliband pledged to end.
He said: “It is a zero-hours contract. It is definitely not a job. I have accepted a role that Miliband wanted to ban.”
Perhaps his slight irritation was a sign of sibling rivalry – his brother, Jo Johnson, was rewarded with a ministerial job, appointed as the new Universities and Science Minister.
Jo, who was first elected to Parliament in 2010, was rewarded with a promotion after heading up the Downing Street Policy Unit and being in charge of the Conservative party’s manifesto.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments