Johnson Tackles Looming Deadline in First Test—Incredulous Conference Awaits!

The British Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, faced a looming deadline and an incredulous conference in the first test of his Brexit promises as he sought to demonstrate his ability to deliver on his “do or die” pledge to take the country out of the European Union come October 31. After only three months in office, Mr Johnson, who had campaigned on a pledge to take the UK out of the EU as soon as possible without an additional delay, faced skepticism as he addressed the House of Commons. One of Johnson’s primary tasks is to renegotiate the terms of the Withdrawal Agreement struck with the EU by his predecessor Theresa May There has already been much talk of a “no deal Brexit”, which could mean the UK leaving the EU without a deal. However, Mr Johnson has made it clear that he seeks to renegotiate the Withdrawal Agreement before any such conclusion is reached. The EU has so far been unwilling to countenance reopening talks, pushing Mr Johnson to clarify what his alternative plans are ahead of the October 31 deadline. The Prime Minister has promised that the UK will leave the EU come what may, but he has yet to offer an outline of how the country aims to do that. This has led many, including top officials in Brussels, to wonder if the UK is actually serious about leaving – or if it is merely posturing in the hope of leveraging a better deal from the EU. The first test of Mr Johnson’s promises is the UK’s commitment to the Northern Ireland-Ireland backstop. With his promise to “do or die” looming, Mr Johnson will need to demonstrate his ability to deliver a Brexit deal that works for everyone involved. The Prime Minister’s policies have been met with stiff opposition from British lawmakers, as well as from the opposition parties. The lack of clarity concerning his plans for the Withdrawal Agreement has led to increasing uncertainty in political circles over whether the October 31 deadline will be met. Mr Johnson is also facing criticism from within his own Conservative Party, with the party split on the issue of Brexit. The divisions have led to a steadying of the party’s support in recent times and put pressure on Mr Johnson to come up with a plan that appeals to both Remainers and Brexiteers. Despite the obstacles, Mr Johnson has been adamant about his commitment to get the UK out of the EU by October 31. His undying ambition, though, must now be matched with an achievable plan if he is to make good on his promise. Whether he is capable of doing so within the allotted time remains to be seen.