Boris Johnson refuses to say whether he would resign as prime minister if Brexit not delivered on time
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.Boris Johnson has refused to say whether he would resign as prime minister if Brexit is not delivered on time.
The favourite to replace Theresa May dodged the question from rival Jeremy Hunt as they went head-to-head in a live TV debate.
Mr Hunt asked Mr Johnson whether, if he became prime minister, he would quit if Britain failed to leave the EU by the deadline of 31 October.
Mr Johnson eventually replied: “I think it is very, very important not to envisage any circumstances in which we would fail to come out of the EU on 31 October.
“I don't want to hold out to the EU the prospect that they might encourage my resignation by refusing to agree a deal.”
However Mr Hunt said his rival had previously said the UK would leave on 31 October “do or die”.
He said: “I think it’s do or die for the country, but not a prime minister who‘ll put his neck on the line and that is not leadership.”
The pair appeared in front of a studio audience during their first live debate of the contest, broadcast on ITV.
The next prime minister will be chosen by Tory members, with the result announced on 23 July.
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments