London. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Friday accepted “personal responsibility” for his Conservative Party’s crushing defeat in the by-election. The by-election was called a referendum on Johnson’s leadership in Downing Street. The seat, considered a stronghold of the Conservative Party (Tory Party), has been by-election after the resignation of North Shropshire Member of Parliament Owen Peterson, in which Liberal Democrat candidate Helen Morgan won.
When asked about his party’s defeat in the by-election, Johnson told reporters, “I am responsible for whatever the government does and of course I take personal responsibility.”
“Obviously the election result in North Shropshire is very disappointing and I completely understand the frustrations of the people,” he said. I have heard what voters are saying in North Shropshire and with all humility I have to accept that decision.”
Conservative Party co-chair Oliver Dowden previously admitted that his party had received a “hurt” and sent “a message” that the ruling party had “clearly heard”.
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The election result prompted critics of Johnson within the party to issue warnings that his (Johnson’s) leadership was now in limbo. Sir Roger Gayle, a Tory member of parliament, told the BBC: “He (Johnson) will be out after one more blow.”
He said the by-election “should be seen as a referendum on the performance of the prime minister”. In his victory speech, Morgan said, “The people of North Shropshire have given this answer on behalf of the British people. He said emphatically and clearly, “Boris Johnson, your party is over.”
Morgan won by 5,925 votes. He said, “Your government which runs on lies and boasting will be held accountable. It will be investigated, it will be challenged. This government can be defeated and will certainly be defeated.”