British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has survived the no-confidence motion, securing enough support from his party to stay on as prime minister.
Known for his ability to overcome scandals, Johnson faced widespread criticism following revelations that he and his staff had consistently hosted parties at a time when the state had restrictions on the coronavirus pandemic.
Johnson won the support of 211 of the 359 Conservative MPs, more than the simple majority he needed to stay in power, yet 148 MPs voted for him to step down.
The motion shows signs of deep divisions among the Conservatives, just three years after Johnson led his party to the biggest election victory in decades.
The motion was raised after Conservative Party official Graham Brady announced Monday that he had received letters calling for a no-confidence motion to be held by at least 54 Conservative MPs. Hours later, lawmakers went to Parliament to vote on the issue.
After that, Johnson’s office said he had welcomed the vote “as an opportunity to put an end to months of speculation and enable the Government to continue its work.”
Johnson addressed conservative lawmakers in the British Parliament on Monday, vowing “that I will lead them back to victory.”
Johnson was elected Prime Minister in July 2019. Prior to being elected Prime Minister he had held several political positions. He has been President of London and Secretary of State.
His predecessor, Theresa May, also managed in 2018 to survive a no-confidence motion, but less than six months later resigned as prime minister.
