Boris Johnson's close friends and colleagues say the 'subdued' and 'moody' Prime Minister is worrying and complaining about money after his earnings shrank from over £350,000 a year down to £150,000. Those in contact with Mr Johnson claim the embattled premier, usually jovial and ebullient, has 'misery etched on his face' as he struggles to cope with ever-growing political and personal pressures. Meanwhile friends allege that he is worrying about money, having sacrificed his Daily Telegraph column (£275,000) and lucrative speaking engagements for his prime ministerial salary (£150,000). Senior Conservatives who meet regularly with the Prime Minister said the twin crises of coronavirus and Brexit have knocked his confidence and usual optimism. Mr Johnson has faced criticism domestically and on the world stage for pursuing 'madman' legislation that would defy the Withdrawal Agreement brokered with the EU last year, breaking international law in the process.

Source: The Nation September 19, 2020 11:05 UTC