Boris Johnson’s Weight-Loss Drug Experience Sparks Controversy Amid Journalistic Role

In his first Daily Mail column, former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson discusses his personal experience with a weight-loss drug that did not work well for him.

However, he argues that such drugs could be effective in tackling Britain’s obesity crisis.

This column has sparked accusations of a breach of ministerial rules, adding to the controversy surrounding Johnson’s new journalistic role.

Weight-Loss Drug Experience:

In the 1,200-word article, Johnson shares his unsuccessful attempt with appetite-suppressants and concludes that they could be beneficial for addressing obesity in the country.

He recounts noticing a colleague’s weight loss during his time in government and his curiosity about the method used.

Johnson reveals that he tried the colleague’s “wonder drug” himself but discontinued its use due to adverse effects.

Despite his personal experience, he suggests that these drugs might be helpful for others who respond better to them, along with exercise and willpower.

Breaching Ministerial Rules:

The Advisory Committee on Business Appointments (Acoba) sent a letter to Boris Johnson, demanding an explanation for his new journalistic role shortly after it was announced.

The committee, responsible for ensuring compliance with ministerial standards, considered the last-minute declaration of Johnson’s appointment as a clear breach of rules.

The ministerial code requires former government officials to seek advice from Acoba before taking up new appointments or roles.

Acoba, although lacking the power to impose sanctions, serves to prevent favoritism and misuse of government connections.

Criticism and Accusations:

Critics, including Deputy Labour leader Angela Rayner, argue that Boris Johnson is once again breaking the rules and exploiting a flawed system for personal gain.

The perceived toothlessness of Acoba often leads to accusations that it is ineffective.

While Johnson’s spokesman claims that he is in contact with Acoba and following the regular process, concerns about the ethics and transparency of the former prime minister’s actions persist.

Controversial Columnist Appointment:

The Daily Mail welcomed Boris Johnson as an “erudite” columnist, emphasizing his status as required reading in Westminster.

Johnson’s appointment came a day after he became the first former prime minister to be found guilty of lying to the Commons regarding his partygate denials.

With this new role, Johnson gains a powerful platform to criticize Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, with whom he has clashed publicly.

Although he jokes about only covering politics when necessary, his column provides ample opportunity for him to make political statements.

Conclusion:

Boris Johnson’s weight-loss drug experience and subsequent column have ignited controversy surrounding his new journalistic role.

The accusations of breaching ministerial rules, along with the perception of exploiting a flawed system, raise ethical concerns.

While Johnson’s personal experience with weight loss informs his perspective on the topic, his position as a columnist allows him to exert influence and make political statements.

The consequences and implications of Johnson’s actions as a former prime minister turned columnist remain subjects of ongoing debate.