· policy

Boris Johnson on Brexit

Key Brexit Champion (strong) Position evolved

Key Points

He was a prominent figure in the Leave campaign for the 2016 EU membership referendum, which he subsequently won.
He resigned as Foreign Secretary in 2018 due to opposition to his predecessor's approach to the Brexit negotiations.
On 24 December 2020, he announced that the UK and the EU had reached a comprehensive Canada-style free trade deal.

Summary

Boris Johnson was a prominent figure in the 2016 EU membership referendum, leading the successful Vote Leave campaign after initially being hesitant about the issue. He often emphasized themes of national sovereignty, promising voters they would take back control of their laws and borders, and was considered the most trusted politician on the issue during the campaign. Following the Leave vote, he was appointed Foreign Secretary but resigned in protest against his predecessor's proposed withdrawal agreement, which he labelled a national humiliation that made a mockery of Brexit.

As Prime Minister, his core objective became the finalization of the withdrawal, adopting the electoral mantra to "Get Brexit Done" in the 2019 general election. He secured a revised Withdrawal Agreement, which included the Northern Ireland Protocol, by promising hardline supporters it would be revisited later. While he claimed the resulting EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA) on 24 December 2020 meant certainty and the end of the process, critics argue his deal merely mitigated the worst economic damage and created major ongoing tensions, particularly regarding Northern Ireland.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was Boris Johnson's main stance on Brexit?

Boris Johnson was the main public champion for the UK leaving the European Union, arguing for taking back control of laws and borders. He successfully campaigned on the slogan to "Get Brexit Done" to win the 2019 general election. His ultimate aim was to complete the withdrawal from the EU and establish a new, independent trading relationship.

Did Boris Johnson change his position on Brexit?

Yes, there is evidence suggesting his position evolved, particularly concerning the nature of the final deal. He wrote a pro-EU article shortly before backing Leave in 2016, leading to accusations of political opportunism. As Prime Minister, he secured a deal with a Northern Ireland Protocol that hardline supporters considered problematic, even as he downplayed the border issues it created.

What did Boris Johnson achieve regarding Brexit as Prime Minister?

Boris Johnson succeeded in finalizing the UK's departure from the EU, formally leaving the transition period on 31 December 2020. He secured a trade agreement with the EU which he claimed provided certainty for business. However, analysts suggest that this deal, which he sold as 'oven-ready,' left significant, unresolved issues, especially concerning Northern Ireland.