UK MP Boris Johnson to face Brexit misconduct charges News
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UK MP Boris Johnson to face Brexit misconduct charges

The Westminster Magistrate’s Court ruled Wednesday that MP Boris Johnson must appear in court to face an accusation of misconduct in public office. The claim alleges that Johnson lied in order to encourage voters to leave the EU.

Johnson was a prominent figure in the campaign to for Britain to leave the EU and resigned as Foreign Minister last summer over the way “Brexit” was being handled. During the campaign, Johnson repeatedly claimed that Britain sent the EU £350 million each week.

The charge was brought by private prosecutor Marcus Ball who has crowdfunded over £270,000 to support the legal action. His crowdfunding page lists a goal of £500,000. English courts allow private lawyers to prosecute criminal actions, but they must fund the prosecution themselves.

District Judge Margot Coleman was careful to point out in her decision that no proof has been offered in court as of yet to support charges: “The allegations which have been made are unproven accusations and I do not make any findings of fact. Having considered all the relevant factors I am satisfied that this is a proper case to issue the summons as requested for the three offences as drafted. The charges are indictable only.”

Johnson is a member of the Conservative party and considered a likely contender for Prime Minister when Theresa May steps down.

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