Former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson has expressed his support for a referendum on the country’s membership in the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR). He believes that the ECHR restricts Britain’s control over immigration and suggested that it does not offer additional protections to the people. This statement comes amidst the ongoing debate within the Tory party regarding the UK’s membership in the ECHR.
Johnson’s remarks coincide with the release of his memoir, Unleashed, where he criticizes current government policies and political figures. He also addresses his regrets and decisions during his time in office, including the handling of political advisor Dominic Cummings and the fallout from the Barnard Castle incident.
The issue of the UK’s relationship with Ireland has also been raised, with Foreign Secretary David Lammy advocating for increased cooperation between the two countries on various issues such as growth and climate. This comes in the wake of the Chagos deal, which has sparked questions and criticisms from some quarters.
In addition to these developments, the Conservative party is embroiled in a leadership campaign to select its next leader following the departure of Rishi Sunak. Candidates like Robert Jenrick, Kemi Badenoch, James Cleverly, and Tom Tugendhat are vying for the position, with speculation rife about who will emerge as the new leader to challenge Keir Starmer’s Labour party.
A recent survey has also revealed that a significant portion of Conservative party members support a merger with Reform UK, led by Nigel Farage. This indicates a growing sentiment within the party for closer ties with other political factions.
Overall, the political landscape in the UK is undergoing significant shifts and debates, with key figures like Boris Johnson and David Lammy at the forefront of discussions on crucial issues like ECHR membership and international cooperation. As the country navigates through these challenges, the decisions made by its leaders will have far-reaching implications for its future direction.