Boris Johnson could avoid the big mistake of previously ousted PMs, but it’s unlikely

Boris Johnson will not resist the temptation to wait for the call to return that will never come, writes Andrew Grice

Unlike his predecessors, Johnson has shown not an ounce of contrition (PA Wire)

I’ve now watched seven prime ministers depart the stage in my time at Westminster, and felt some sympathy at a human level for all of them except one. Boris Johnson’s actions since being toppled have been the polar opposite of the dignified exits managed by Margaret Thatcher, John Major, Tony Blair, Gordon Brown, David Cameron and Theresa May.

I’m sad to be feeling like this. As a fellow journalist, I knew Johnson well enough to straighten his tie for the photo when I interviewed him as he ran for re-election as London mayor. “Bloody Independent smartening me up now!” he laughed. I didn’t realise the wonky tie was part of his act.

Unlike his predecessors, Johnson has shown not an ounce of contrition and not apologised for his errors of judgement, let alone acknowledged that he was economical with the truth. He clung to power for longer than any other prime minister would have done in the same circumstances – even, briefly, after the resignations of 50 ministers. As ever, he was hoping something would turn up; for the first time, it didn’t.