The political scene in Britain is abuzz with the appointment of Prime Minister Boris Johnson to office and questions over the Brexit deadline weighing heavily upon the United Kingdom. In the midst of this turmoil, Johnson was put to the test for the first time as Prime Minister at a press conference on Tuesday regarding the looming Brexit deadline. In response to questions from the journalists in attendance, Johnson spoke of the importance of the October 31st deadline and how his government is working tirelessly to secure a successful withdrawal from the European Union.
The questions posed to the new Prime Minister led to a discussion about the feasibility of the Brexit process and how the withdrawal could be achieved. When asked what impact a “no-deal” Brexit might have on security measures, Johnson argued that it would not have an impact since the government was actively working to secure a “good Brexit deal”.
The Prime Minister’s response was met with incredulity from the journalists present. Johnson seemed to hint that an extension of the Brexit deadline was possible, although he stressed that the only viable way forward was to secure a withdrawal agreement. However, Johnson argued that the United Kingdom’s economic future is at stake, and that an extension could cause “disaster”.
The Prime Minister’s response to the looming Brexit deadline has been met with a mixed response from members of the British press. Some journalists have accused Johnson of being too vague in his statements and not providing clear information about how he plans to secure a successful deal. Others are concerned that an extension of the Brexit deadline could be damaging to the UK’s economic future.
However, Johnson has made it clear that he is committed to getting a deal done in the time frame that is necessary. He remains resolute in his belief that the October 31st deadline can be met and that the United Kingdom will be in a better place after Brexit. As such, Johnson’s first press conference as Prime Minister tested his commitment to the Brexit process and the looming deadline.