Boris Johnson shocks UK by resigning from Parliament

Former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson.
(Image credit: Brandon Bell/Getty Images)

Boris Johnson sent shockwaves through the United Kingdom on Friday when he announced that he was stepping down as a member of Parliament. His exit triggers a by-election for his West London seat in the House of Commons, and ends the political reign of one of Britain's most controversial politicians.

Johnson announced his resignation ahead of the expected release of an ethics investigation looking into his behavior as prime minister. In a lengthy statement detailing his departure, Johnson, who was ousted as prime minister less than a year ago, said the investigation was determined to "drive me out of Parliament," claiming the probe has "not produced a shred of evidence that I knowingly or recklessly misled the Commons."

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Justin Klawans, The Week US

 Justin Klawans has worked as a staff writer at The Week since 2022. He began his career covering local news before joining Newsweek as a breaking news reporter, where he wrote about politics, national and global affairs, business, crime, sports, film, television and other Hollywood news. Justin has also freelanced for outlets including Collider and United Press International.