PM could face by-election over Partygate, says speaker

Boris Johnson might face a recall petition that could trigger a byelection if he is suspended by MPs investigating whether he lied over Partygate, the Commons speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle has confirmed.

- ADAM FORREST

The privileges committee examining whether the prime minister mislead parliament has set out the terms of their inquiry, insisting the probe will go ahead despite his resignation.

The speaker confirmed that the committee's findings - if they deem Mr Johnson worthy of suspension - would fall within the remit of the Recall of MPs Act, following advice from a leading lawyer.

The committee said Sir Lindsay ruled that "any suspension of the requisite length (ten sitting days or fourteen calendar days) following on from a report from that committee will attract the provisions of the Recall of MPs Act". A recall petition would mean Mr Johnson's constituents in Uxbridge and South Ruislip could trigger a special election to remove him before the next general election.