All Segments
Boris Johnson: "They Were Looking at Engineering the Virus” & “The Government Tried To Bribe Me!"
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Boris Johnson is the former UK Prime Minister, serving from 2019 to 2022. He was the 55th Prime Minister, led through 3 of the biggest crises of the last century, and is one of the most controversial characters in the history of the United Kingdom. Boris Johnson is now ‘unleashed’. 00:00 Intro 02:53 What Do We Need To Understand About Your Early Years 05:20 Glue Ear Making You Deaf 06:15 Your Mother Charlotte 08:55 Why Was Your Mother Sent To A Psychiatric Ward 11:46 Why Did Your Mother Say You Were "Self Defending" 13:41 Why Did Your Parents Divorce? 15:10 Was There Physical Violence In The Household? 15:57 What Did Your Parents Teach You About Marriage And Love 18:32 Is Your Public Persona A Marketing Strategy? 25:04 The Imbalance Of The UK's Class System 28:53 Has The Conservative Government Done Enough To Level The UK? 38:58 Boris' Career Rundown 39:28 Did You Expect To Win The London Mayorship? 41:53 You Had 3 Significant Country Events, Do You Wish It Was Different? 43:34 Did You Think You Were Going To Win The Brexit Vote? 45:46 Your Secret Pro-Remain Letter 49:50 You Had No Plan After Brexit 01:00:09 Did David Cameron React Badly When You Said You Were Going To Leave? 01:02:01 How Does Someone Get A High-Level Job Without Having Done It Before? 01:04:07 If You're In Politics, You Need To Be Okay With Public Attacks 01:05:38 Is Politics All About Bringing Your Friends Up With You? 01:07:07 Do You Regret Brexit? 01:10:21 What Have The Downsides Of Brexit Been? 01:14:13 When Was The First Time You Heard About This Virus? 01:18:41 When Did You Call China To Address Covid 01:20:03 The Virus Was Actually Created In A Lab 01:21:05 Call Trump To Talk About Covid 01:21:57 Lockdowns 01:27:46 Were The Lockdowns Even Worth It 01:29:20 The Tiering System Was Bonkers 01:31:14 Was There A Mental Toll On You? 01:32:59 The Impact Of The Death Of Your Mother 01:36:58 Party Gate 01:47:41 How Many Children Do You Have? 01:48:05 Charlotte Owen 01:48:15 What Happens Next For Boris Johnson 01:49:52 Last Guest Question You can purchase Boris’ book, ‘Unleashed’, here: https://g2ul0.app.link/C9fcSpmAyNb 🌟 Get access to exclusive Diary of a CEO content: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGq-a57w-aPwyi3pW7XLiHw/join You can purchase the The Diary Of A CEO Conversation Cards: Second Edition, here: https://g2ul0.app.link/f31dsUttKKb Follow me: https://g2ul0.app.link/gnGqL4IsKKb Sponsors: PerfectTed - https://www.perfectted.com with code DIARY40 for 40% off
Segments Timeline
The Party Controversy
Boris Johnson addresses the backlash over alleged rule-breaking parties during his tenure as Prime Minister. He expresses his outrage at the perception of these gatherings, especially in light of the restrictions faced by ordinary citizens during the pandemic. Johnson emphasizes the need for accountability and reflects on the implications of leadership during a crisis.
"do you really think I was deliberately partti and breaking the rules but it's all about leading by example ISM sorry but to say it was a party is a complete travesty seeing that photo when one of my f..."
Understanding My Early Years
Boris Johnson reflects on his childhood and the dynamics with his siblings. He discusses the impact of sibling rivalry and competition on his development, revealing how these experiences shaped his personality and approach to life. Johnson shares insights into his upbringing and the loving environment created by his parents despite their busy lives.
"Boris Ste what do I need to understand about your earliest years to understand the man that you are today I think the key thing is my wonderful happy very kind of paginating childhood um in the compan..."
Overcoming Hearing Challenges
Johnson opens up about his childhood health issues, specifically glue ear, which affected his hearing. He humorously speculates on whether his deafness was a way to avoid engaging with his mother's questions. This segment highlights the challenges he faced growing up and how they contributed to his character.
"a lot it sounded like you had a rough sort of first 10 years of life because you also had glue ear which is uh which made you deaf a little yes well I don't know I think we need to look very care the ..."
The Influence of My Mother
Boris Johnson discusses the pivotal role his mother, Charlotte, played in his life. He reflects on her artistic talents and the impact of her struggles with obsessive-compulsive disorder. Johnson shares the emotional weight of her hospitalization when he was ten and how it affected him and his siblings, fostering a sense of solidarity among them.
"four children you were the oldest of those four um she seems to be a really important character in your life In fact when I opened up the first couple of pages of the book you you dedicate the book in..."
The Impact of Family Turmoil
In this segment, Johnson recounts the divorce of his parents and the emotional turmoil it caused. He candidly shares his feelings of anger and confusion as a child, questioning why they had children if they were going to separate. Johnson emphasizes the importance of not blaming oneself for parental decisions and reflects on how this experience shaped his understanding of love and relationships.
"sent to a psychiatric facility um well I guess because she's I think that's a JT good question I don't know really know the answer I think I think she probably said that she thought she could benefit ..."
Lessons from My Parents' Marriage
Boris Johnson reflects on the lessons learned from his parents' marriage and subsequent divorce. He describes their affection for each other even after separating, which provided a sense of stability for him and his siblings. Johnson discusses how this experience influenced his views on marriage and love, highlighting the importance of maintaining respect and affection despite challenges.
"that self-defense manifest in terms of behavior I just I'd be the worst type of um what let me think well how did I how did I how how did my self-defense manifest I suppose I became yes unquestionably..."
Coping Mechanisms and Self-Defense
Johnson explores how he coped with the emotional pain of his parents' divorce and his mother's absence. He discusses the development of self-defense mechanisms and how he channeled his feelings into academic work. This segment delves into the psychological impact of family dynamics on his self-esteem and personal growth.
"you you say Bust ups that from everything that I've read There was physical violence in the household when you were younger yeah well this is this is something that um has been alleged by uh sadly by ..."
The Comedic Persona of Boris Johnson
Boris Johnson reflects on his public persona, which many perceive as comedic or buffoonish. He discusses how this image was shaped by his early experiences and his family's dynamic, emphasizing the role of humor in engaging the public and making politics more accessible.
"actual the truth is I'm I'm now told in retrospect that that is what I said I don't personally remember it you remember how it feels yeah but look I mean yes but I really wouldn't want to over egg it ..."
Comedy as a Political Tool
In this segment, Boris Johnson explores the relationship between comedy and politics. He shares insights on how humor can be a strategic device in politics, aiming to engage and entertain while delivering serious messages. He references advice from comedian Jimmy Carr about the roots of comedic behavior.
"comedic kind of you know people often describe you as being a bit of a buffoon I actually thought you were a this is just being honest because I feel like it's important to be honest to someone if you..."
Sugarcoating Seriousness
Boris Johnson discusses his writing style in his book 'Unleashed,' where he aims to blend serious arguments with engaging storytelling. He likens his approach to sugarcoating a pill, making complex political issues more palatable for readers.
"all yeah and I think I don't know I I think that um one of the things I've tried to do in politics is to get people interested and one of the things I'm trying to do and Unleashed which is unquestiona..."
The Role of Education in Opportunity
Johnson reflects on his educational background and the disparities in opportunity across the UK. He emphasizes the need for a more equitable education system that allows talent and ambition to flourish, regardless of background.
"sugared you sugared yourself no well I it's well I know there are it's the fact of the great things that I think that we did we know we took back control of our of our country we we had a we we went f..."
Eton's Influence on Leadership
In this segment, Boris Johnson discusses the prevalence of Eton-educated individuals in UK politics. He critiques the imbalance this creates in leadership and the need for broader representation and opportunity in political spheres.
"about and you understand is effective because they describe you as being one of the best sort of election winners of our of our time I think what people will I don't know I mean what people will also ..."
The Need for Cultural Change
Johnson argues for a cultural shift in the UK to promote opportunity and ambition. He contrasts the UK's growth potential with that of the US, advocating for a system that empowers individuals to overcome geographical and social barriers.
"would not say that you would say that who I would say that yeah you think Leo have you met my brother Leo no I've not met well then you got to get Leo on this show but your sister my brother Joe yes y..."
Addressing Educational Disparities
Boris Johnson shares his observations from visiting a poorly ranked school in Liverpool. He highlights the challenges faced by students and teachers due to funding issues and the impact of educational inequality on future opportunities.
"videos yeah he he anyway Eon it's pretty crazy she went to Eaton at 13 years old it's the crazy thing for me is that approximately 20 of the 57 individuals who have served as prime minister went to Eo..."
The Importance of Quality Education
In this segment, Johnson emphasizes the critical role of quality education in leveling the playing field for all children. He discusses the need for systemic changes to ensure that every student has access to the resources and support necessary for success.
"remember feeling this incredible sense of Amazement that there were kids from some of the most famous illustrious families in in Britain uh who plainly didn't have you know much um intellectual intere..."
Investing in Future Generations
Boris Johnson outlines his vision for investing in education and skills development to prepare young people for the future. He stresses the importance of equipping students with the necessary skills to thrive in a competitive job market.
"basic problem with our country and this country has more potential arguably than any other major European economy because it's so imbalanced and if you look at the the propon schools like mine p in Lo..."
Critique of Conservative Education Policies
Johnson critiques the Conservative government's education policies, acknowledging improvements while highlighting ongoing challenges. He calls for continued investment in education to ensure that all students receive a fair chance to succeed.
"and it was total rubbish total rubbish and you you can change people's aspirations but you can then also change uh the culture of of achievement and and I saw it happen in London and I was only mayor ..."
Infrastructure as an Equalizer
In this segment, Boris Johnson discusses the importance of infrastructure in leveling opportunities across the UK. He advocates for continued investment in transport and digital infrastructure to support economic growth and equality.
"yeah and you know so you know AB I was proud of doing things like um rolling out gigabit Broadband from you know 7 to 70% 69 70% of of households in in 3 years which is not not bad going I was proud o..."
The Challenge of Educational Inequality
Johnson reflects on the systemic issues in the UK education system that perpetuate inequality. He emphasizes the need for reforms that address funding disparities and ensure that all students have access to quality education.
"problem is Eaton Eaton was to back to your question that youthful experience was I I was also at Primary School in in London and I really really decided that this was because I think our country has t..."
A Call for Cultural Change in Politics
Boris Johnson discusses the need for a cultural shift in politics to address the imbalances in opportunity and representation. He advocates for policies that promote inclusivity and empower individuals from diverse backgrounds.
"cultures like France or wherever where you know the a lot of the the country is run by the um the the people from the the the Great Schools um but yeah I mean fundamentally yes that's I think that the..."
The Role of Teachers in Shaping Futures
In this segment, Johnson expresses admiration for teachers and the challenges they face in the current educational landscape. He highlights the importance of supporting educators to improve the quality of education for all students.
"certainly is the case isn't it at the moment in the UK too much the case I mean it's less it's less than it was I went undercover I went undercover in a school in Liverpool that was very poorly ranked..."
Investing in Education for Economic Growth
Boris Johnson concludes by discussing the link between education investment and economic growth. He emphasizes the need for a collaborative effort to ensure that the education system prepares students for the demands of the future job market.
"skewed to doing subjects that perhaps no interest of them they had me pushing some plastic baby around the school in Health and Social care when I was running businesses in the school and I was I was ..."
The Foundation of Opportunity: Education
Boris Johnson discusses the critical role of education in providing equal opportunities for all, emphasizing the need for quality teaching and adequate funding. He reflects on the challenges faced by teachers and the importance of improving educational standards to uplift society and create future leaders.
"situation they don't have the teachers the teachers are dropping like flies because they're getting sick because they're understaffed and I just thought that that's such a if we think about you know w..."
Investing in Education: A Conservative Approach
Johnson highlights the Conservative government's efforts to increase funding for education during his tenure, noting improvements in literacy and numeracy rankings. He argues that a focus on quality education and teacher support is essential for societal progress and economic growth.
"think the driving out of the whole Academy program I mean not remotely denying what you say about um the teacher you you know the teachers you saw being being totally run run ragged um and you know th..."
Transforming Communities Through Education
In this segment, Johnson explains how enhancing educational quality can lead to positive community transformations. He draws parallels between educational improvements and economic investment, asserting that better schools attract families and foster local development.
"it's all about it's about having the um the confidence that the the state is doing enough to deliver private sector investment that is that is ultimately what will transform the the neighborhood and a..."
The Importance of School Standards
Boris Johnson expresses concern over current educational standards and the role of Ofsted in ensuring school quality. He emphasizes the need for transparency in school performance to help parents make informed decisions about their children's education.
"look at what the conservatives did they really focused on that and they focused on the curriculum they focused on standards they focused on quality and I think that was very important because you know..."
From Journalism to Politics: A Career Journey
Reflecting on his career, Johnson recounts his transition from journalism to politics, including his time as a management consultant and his eventual election as London Mayor. He discusses the challenges and expectations that came with his political journey.
"Management Consultant which lasted only a week I hear yeah I was wasn't really cut out for Management Consultant you know you then become a journalist um you become a journalist for the next couple of..."
Addressing Crime in London
Johnson shares his commitment to tackling crime during his tenure as London Mayor, particularly focusing on knife crime and gang violence. He highlights the emotional toll of these issues and the importance of community safety.
"campaign but if you ask me if I thought I would win something I can tell you in hset whether I thought I'd win I did soccer Aid last year this year and I can tell you if I thought I was going to win d..."
Navigating Generational Crises as Prime Minister
In this segment, Johnson reflects on the unprecedented challenges he faced as Prime Minister, including Brexit, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the Ukraine war. He discusses the unique pressures of leading during such significant crises.
"when I together with a lot of other people kit Mouse Deputy Mayor Steven greenhalge uh Paul Stevenson the commissioner Bernard Hogan how who who followed him we really really tried to fix knife crime ..."
Pride in Leadership Amidst Challenges
Johnson expresses pride in his leadership during difficult times, asserting that the ability to navigate crises is part of the Prime Minister's role. He discusses the importance of national independence gained through Brexit in responding to the pandemic.
"as prime minister of the UK there's three really significant moments isn't there that typically don't fall all in one person's role as a prime minister you had the brexit issues you had Co and you had..."
Expectations and Realities of the Brexit Vote
Reflecting on the Brexit vote, Johnson shares his mixed feelings about the outcome, noting the differing sentiments between London and the rest of the UK. He discusses the motivations behind the vote and the unexpected turnout.
"did with with the country I think it was very you know people now say um oh brexit War actually you know one of the points I make in in Unleashed is that if you look at it the model of national Indepe..."
Conflicted Views on Brexit: A Personal Reflection
Johnson reveals his internal conflict regarding Brexit, discussing the complexities of his decision-making process. He contrasts his public campaigning with his private doubts and the nuanced arguments he considered.
"have voted on well I the polls were were basically more for remain than for leave um but I sort of thought that our voters were more motivated so I hoped that they would come out and I hoped that they..."
The Nuances of Leaving the EU
In this segment, Johnson elaborates on the nuanced arguments for and against remaining in the EU. He reflects on the implications of EU membership for British sovereignty and the importance of democratic accountability.
"conflicted the the reasons for for for not leaving were it seemed to me to be more to do with Britain's duty to the rest of Europe or need to be good partners uh our need not to be negative uh to be f..."
The Case for National Independence
Johnson argues for the necessity of national independence, emphasizing the importance of legislative freedom post-Brexit. He discusses how this independence allowed the UK to respond effectively to the pandemic.
"market on our doorstep ready for future exploitation by British firms the membership fee seems rather small for all that access why are we so determined to turn our back on it shouldn't our policy be ..."
Vaccination Success: A Result of Regulatory Freedom
Johnson highlights the UK's rapid vaccination rollout during the pandemic as a key achievement, attributing it to the regulatory freedom gained from leaving the EU. He contrasts this success with the slower responses of other European countries.
"and I thought that we weren't ever going to get the choice again the chance again to have National Democratic Independence and as I said in so I wrote that article you just quoted was a sort of pasti ..."
The Importance of Control in Crisis Management
In this concluding segment, Johnson discusses the significance of maintaining control during crises. He uses analogies to illustrate the balance between freedom and safety, reinforcing the idea that taking back control was essential for effective governance.
"democratically is there not way you can reform the relationship with the EU while being in the EU you know it's interesting I think I was thinking of a football analogy as you're talking there and rig..."
The Freedom of Regulatory Control
Boris Johnson discusses the importance of regulatory freedom gained from leaving the EU, emphasizing how it enabled the UK to respond effectively to the pandemic. He highlights the speed of the vaccination rollout as a key achievement, attributing it to the legislative independence that Brexit provided.
"I mean you know that's but they joined forces to make the some greater than the parts yeah but you know there's no the the the EU provides a a body of new and a continuously evolving body of new law w..."
The Parachute Analogy
In a metaphorical discussion, Johnson compares Brexit to cutting the cords of a parachute, suggesting that while it may seem risky, it allowed the UK to equip itself for a safe landing. He argues that leaving the EU enabled quicker responses to crises, particularly during the pandemic.
"sure I'm clear because if I'm not clear moving forward then my audience aren't going to be clear um this idea of like Freedom if we take the the analogy of like a of a parachute if I cut the C WS I'm ..."
The Lack of a Brexit Plan
Johnson reflects on the chaotic aftermath of the Brexit referendum, admitting that there was no concrete plan for leaving. He expresses frustration at being blamed for the lack of a strategy, emphasizing that it was the government's responsibility to outline the next steps.
"had thousands you know up to a thousand people dying every day and so it was incredibly important just we were able to give elderly and vulnerable people in the UK a protection from in a on this point..."
Cameron's Reaction to Brexit
Boris Johnson recounts his conversation with David Cameron regarding his decision to support Brexit. He describes Cameron's anger and the pressure he felt, illustrating the political tensions surrounding the referendum and the expectations placed on him.
"issue because if in the context of business because when because when because why because because because I think there a fundamental misconception when you when when when a government decides to put ..."
The Cliff Edge Analogy
In a vivid analogy, Johnson compares the Brexit decision to standing at a cliff edge, discussing the implications of jumping without a plan. He addresses public concerns about the lack of foresight in the Brexit campaign and the responsibilities of leadership.
"the government I and so totally I'm not politici I'm just I'm just a member of public I'm just trying to I'm trying to explain why that that was not possible I get it but as a member of the public I t..."
The Blame Game Post-Brexit
Johnson argues against the notion that he should be blamed for the chaotic aftermath of Brexit, asserting that it was the government's duty to manage the transition. He emphasizes the need for clarity and responsibility in political leadership.
"well no because I think they were wrong as a member of public is I see two like two people stood at a cliff Edge and you got one guy called David one guy called Boris and David has said listen I'm tak..."
Job Offers and Political Corruption
The conversation shifts to the ethics of job offers in politics, with Johnson reflecting on Cameron's proposal of a top cabinet position in exchange for loyalty. He critiques the practice as potentially corrupt and discusses the implications for governance.
"believe and he said well if you if you if you come out believe he said I will and I you know apologize for he same he said I will I will [ __ ] you up forever and which I thought was quite a big big y..."
Experience in Government Roles
Johnson addresses the issue of individuals in high-level government positions lacking relevant experience. He discusses the challenges of attracting capable leaders to politics and the perception of a 'boys club' in political appointments.
"but yeah I mean look but but is that not a bit corrupt is that not like the definition of corruption because if I was it to my employ my own view about all I think it's a it's a huge mistake to do tha..."
The Impact of Social Media on Politics
Johnson reflects on the negative effects of social media on political discourse, noting how it can deter capable individuals from entering politics due to the public scrutiny and abuse they face.
"you see it the whole time you see loads and loads of um I plenty of examples of top business people who tried to get who tried to become politicians and it just doesn't seem to work and I I don't know..."
The Nature of Political Success
In discussing political success, Johnson argues that those who thrive in politics are often determined individuals willing to endure public scrutiny. He emphasizes the importance of delivering results for the public.
"um you know they get a lot of shellacking and a lot of abuse if they're not thought to be taking one line or or the other or you know going easy on someone um I mean somebody who's going to interview ..."
Brexit's Economic Impact
Johnson responds to statistics indicating Brexit's negative economic impact, asserting that the UK has outperformed other EU countries since leaving. He argues that Brexit has created opportunities for economic recovery post-pandemic.
"well well I mean um have I used those words before no no but that's the kind of person you're making me sounds like you're quoting me about maybe you but yeah but the kind of person that I think would..."
Defending Brexit's Outcomes
In the face of criticism regarding Brexit's consequences, Johnson defends the decision, claiming it has led to a faster economic rebound and greater freedoms. He challenges the narrative that Brexit has solely caused economic decline.
"reported that brexit has made it harder for them to trade with the EU due to increased paperwork and things like this and the London School of Economics said that brex added 6% to food prices between ..."
The Future of the UK Economy Post-Brexit
Johnson discusses the long-term outlook for the UK economy post-Brexit, asserting that while there may be short-term struggles, the country will ultimately benefit from its independence. He emphasizes the importance of making the right decisions moving forward to ensure economic prosperity.
"freedoms do you know the O ecd do you know what that body is yes yes they say the UK is the only major Rich economy that remains smaller poorer than prior to the pandemic and brexit may be a factor in..."
Public Perception and Economic Predictions
Boris Johnson reflects on the public's perception of Brexit and the various predictions made prior to the referendum. He challenges the narrative that Brexit would lead to mass unemployment and economic decline, citing his tenure's low unemployment rates and job growth as evidence of resilience.
"ultimately the advantage of being free to do your own thing free to run your own country to control your own tradeoff no I have I impact for us in but for me as an average citizen what's the what's th..."
Navigating Economic Challenges
In this segment, Johnson acknowledges the economic challenges faced by some businesses post-Brexit, particularly regarding paperwork and trade with the EU. He discusses the need for technological solutions to these issues and emphasizes the importance of maintaining the UK's sovereignty.
"pandemic began point about the economic I'm just saying that people people make all sorts of prognostications about brexit the stats that I read you do you believe them that there's an economic strugg..."
The Role of Science in Decision Making
Johnson discusses the role of scientific advice in the UK's response to the pandemic, highlighting the challenges of making timely decisions based on evolving information. He reflects on the hesitancy to implement lockdown measures and the balance between public health and economic considerations.
"freedom I don't know how to say this you in a way that you're going to understand but perfect T is banging I'm an investor in the company I drink it every day the whole team drinks perfect Ted every d..."
Initial Response to COVID-19
Boris Johnson recounts the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, including his initial awareness of the virus and the conversations with health officials. He reflects on the uncertainty surrounding the virus's severity and the challenges of managing a public health crisis.
"forever that's perfect ted.com and then use code diary 40 at checkout when you try it make sure you tag me on Instagram and and say Steve you were right it's banging the next big thing was the pandemi..."
Lessons from Past Health Crises
In this segment, Johnson draws parallels between COVID-19 and previous health crises he has dealt with, such as SARS and Ebola. He discusses the lessons learned from these experiences and how they shaped his initial response to the pandemic.
"exactly how it was transmitted there was a lot of stuff we we didn't know some quotes from your book here you said the problem wasn't that I was ignorant to zuntic diseases the problem was that I felt..."
The Call to China
Johnson describes the call he made to Chinese President Xi Jinping regarding the COVID-19 outbreak. He discusses the context of the conversation and his concerns about the virus's origins, reflecting on the complexities of international relations during a global health crisis.
"Unleashed about the my state of mind because you know i' I'd covered in great detail um the uh salmon and eggs Panic uh when millions of chickens were slaughtered uh needlessly i' covered the uh the b..."
The Lab Leak Theory
In this segment, Johnson addresses the controversial lab leak theory regarding the origins of COVID-19. He shares his perspective on the likelihood of the virus being engineered in a lab and the implications of this theory on global health and safety.
"did you call China February had it February 2020 there was a call you made to the leader of China to Xin ping yeah yeah I mean I would have called him I mean it'll be in the it'll be in it'll be in th..."
Conversations with Trump
Johnson recounts his discussions with former President Donald Trump about the COVID-19 pandemic. He reflects on their differing views regarding China's responsibility and the global response to the outbreak, highlighting the complexities of international diplomacy during a crisis.
"can I ask about this because this started as a conspiracy theory that is now widely accepted as the probable likely outcome why were they messing around with a virus in a lab in Wuhan well you may wel..."
Navigating Scientific Advice During COVID
Boris Johnson discusses the challenges of implementing COVID-19 measures in the UK, emphasizing the need to follow scientific advice. He reflects on the contradictory information from scientists and the hesitance to close schools, highlighting the delicate balance between public health and societal patience during the pandemic.
"epicur anyway MH uh so so so they they so you mentioned the Italian situation yeah and they they were already ahead of us and you know we could see that we were going to have to bring in measures but ..."
The Role of Lockdowns in Containing COVID
In this segment, Johnson evaluates the effectiveness of lockdowns during the pandemic. He acknowledges their role in slowing the spread of the virus while questioning whether the benefits outweighed the severe impacts on children's education and life chances.
"for all of the European nations and when I was reading about the information you were getting from scientists on this end and from other people in politics it was so contradictory that I think I was g..."
The Bonkers Tiering System
Boris Johnson reflects on the tiering system implemented during the pandemic, describing it as 'bonkers.' He discusses the difficulties in drawing boundaries between areas and the public's frustration with restrictions that seemed unfair, particularly in regions with low infection rates.
"indeed did happen um throughout the course of the of the pandemic so there were the scientific advice was I mean it wasn't I wouldn't say it was particularly confused at that stage I think it was they..."
The Mental Toll of Leadership
Johnson opens up about the mental toll of leading the UK during the pandemic. He shares the challenges of making tough decisions while dealing with the emotional weight of the crisis, particularly as he faced personal hardships, including the loss of his mother.
"lockdowns really even worked so I'm not saying that what I'm saying so dep what you mean by work I think that they certainly did have a role in stopping spread of the disease and they helped probably ..."
Coping with Personal Loss Amidst a Pandemic
In this poignant segment, Boris Johnson discusses the passing of his mother, Charlotte, while navigating the complexities of the pandemic. He reflects on the universal nature of grief and the additional burden of leadership during such a challenging time.
"which talked about earlier what do you think the answer to that question is I think that we did the right thing you think we did the right thing I think we did the right thing but I but I'm I'm consci..."
Public Perception and the Party Gate Scandal
Johnson addresses the public outrage surrounding the Party Gate scandal, acknowledging the anger felt by those who lost loved ones during the pandemic. He reflects on the optics of leadership and the importance of setting a good example during a public health crisis.
"Autumn and things start to get more difficult again we have a situation where in some parts of the country in I don't know places uh like leester or West Midlands or or wherever uh Northwest um you ha..."
The Burden of Leadership Decisions
In this segment, Johnson discusses the weight of making decisions as Prime Minister during the pandemic. He emphasizes the isolation of leadership and the responsibility of navigating public health measures while managing personal and national crises.
"it see and on on a human level when you're leading the country during a pandemic and you've got you're getting these numbers every day that people are dying and that people are sick and then you know ..."
Reflections on Grief and Public Duty
Boris Johnson reflects on his personal grief following his mother's death and the simultaneous demands of his role as Prime Minister. He acknowledges the shared suffering of the public during the pandemic and the challenges of balancing personal loss with public responsibilities.
"changed because because then I had something my question was about you as a human being when you're dealing with tragic news and this escalating pandemic what what's the human toll if i' had been a fl..."
The Complexity of COVID Rules
Johnson discusses the complexity of COVID-19 rules and the public's adherence to them. He reflects on the need for clear communication and the challenges of enforcing regulations that were often seen as overly complicated or contradictory.
"of Salvation because science was slow to help us on the 13th of September 2021 your mother Charlotte passes away while at the same time you're dealing with all of this Fallout and the recovery from th..."
The Impact of Personal Loss on Leadership
In this emotional segment, Johnson shares the impact of his mother's passing on his leadership during the pandemic. He discusses the difficulty of processing grief while managing the responsibilities of leading the country through a crisis.
"lot throughout that pandemic and a lot of people lost loved ones and you know I had to be I had to be very very mindful of of what was happening every day in in households across the country and and I..."
The Weight of Public Expectations
Johnson reflects on the expectations placed on him as Prime Minister during the pandemic. He discusses the importance of leading by example and the challenges of maintaining public trust amidst personal and national tragedies.
"passing I certainly did grief her passing um but um if if you mean did I sort of process it mourn it I you know to I to the best of my ability yes are you good are you a natural at that sort of thing ..."
Navigating Public Outrage and Accountability
In this segment, Johnson addresses the public outrage over the Party Gate scandal and the importance of accountability in leadership. He reflects on the lessons learned from the pandemic and the need for transparency in governance.
"were also mourning and grieving at the same time and I think that's why the the party gate scenario which you talk about in the book was so enraging for many people because as someone who again is not..."
Clarifying Misconceptions About Party Gate
Johnson clarifies misconceptions surrounding the Party Gate scandal, defending his actions during the pandemic. He discusses the context of his decisions and the challenges of leading during a time of crisis.
"what I could have done was what I could have done I think so I I wonder why I commissioned Sue gray uh to conduct an investigation into it I mean I I was informed that she was the you know politically..."
The Importance of Leading by Example
In this concluding segment, Johnson emphasizes the importance of leading by example during the pandemic. He reflects on the need for clear communication and the responsibility of leaders to uphold public trust amidst challenging circumstances.
"of wine um and several members of staff were also there but there were people I saw throughout the working day anyway but this picture and just just cuz people think that I had a cake and that we we d..."
The Party Scandal: A Leader's Regret
Boris Johnson reflects on the party scandal during the pandemic, expressing regret over not enforcing stricter adherence to rules among his staff. He discusses the public perception of his actions and the importance of being seen to obey the rules, emphasizing the hard work of his team amidst the crisis.
"in um people were working around the clock um and I I think that um I should have said something to the staff like people are going to be out to get us for God's sake you know not only obey the rules ..."
Apologies and Accountability
In this segment, Johnson addresses the consequences of issuing a blanket apology regarding the party allegations. He explains how it may have inadvertently validated false claims about his staff and discusses the importance of protecting his team while acknowledging his responsibility.
"years of people working around the clock in number 10 in conditions of great proximity to each other um there were going to be moments when of course when colleagues are saying are going away when you..."
Defending His Team
Boris Johnson defends the hard work of his staff during the pandemic, asserting that they were dedicated to managing the crisis. He reflects on the challenges they faced and the need for a more nuanced approach to accountability rather than blanket apologies.
"didn't Place take place when I was there I think one of the problem one of the mistakes I made was beginning the whole thing by issuing this General apology and so what happened was so that people thi..."
The Cost of Leadership
Johnson discusses the personal toll of leadership and the relationships affected by his political career. He reflects on past ruptures, particularly with Michael Gove, and emphasizes that he does not view these relationships as permanently lost.
"fair to I I I kind of get the feeling that's what you think and that was largely my fault because I seem to be intently validating the apology is is is not I seem to be validating everything that peop..."
Life After Politics
In this segment, Boris Johnson shares his current life outside of politics, expressing contentment with his rural lifestyle and creative pursuits. He hints at his future ambitions while emphasizing the importance of being genuinely useful in any role he takes on.
"retrospect I think I should have waited to see exactly what people you know said and I what was established to be true and then I should have apologized for what what actually happened you see what I'..."
Trump vs. Kamala: A Diplomatic Perspective
Johnson discusses the importance of maintaining friendly relations with American leaders, regardless of their political affiliation. He reflects on Donald Trump's foreign policy decisions and the perceptions surrounding them, providing insight into his views on international relations.
"politics I I think that um I stay in unleashed the chance of the frisbe dec I saying Unleashed you you should only do things if you genuinely think you can be useful at the moment I think the most I'm..."
Success and Personal Sacrifice
As the interview wraps up, Johnson addresses the question of personal sacrifices made in pursuit of success. He reflects on relationships lost and regained, emphasizing the transient nature of such ruptures and the potential for reconciliation.
"guest not knowing who they're going to leave it for right okay and the question that's been left for you is Success often comes at a price and one of those is the relationships we lose along the way w..."