When did Boris Johnson become prime minister? And who would replace him if he resigned?

13 April 2022, 15:19 | Updated: 20 April 2022, 10:19

The UK's Prime Minister is facing fresh calls to resign following the partygate scandal - but how long has he been PM for? Here's the most likely candidates to replace Boris should he step down.

Boris Johnson is facing widespread calls to resign following 'partygate' at 10 Downing Street.

The prime minister, along with other MPs, have been dealt fines after they were found to be attending parties and gatherings despite the country being under coronavirus lockdown rules.

Following an official apology in the House of Commons, Boris is now facing an investigation into his actions.

Now, as his future remains undecided, we take a look at the moment he became PM following Theresa May's resignation.

Related article: Boris 'orders Tories to block new Partygate probe' as he defies calls to quit

Related article: 'Untenable' for PM to have broken his own laws says Tory MP after calling for Boris to go

And who would take over from Boris should he stand down from prime minister? Here's a look at his history and potential future candidates for PM.

Caller says Boris Johnson and Rishi Sunak 'must go'

When did Boris Johnson become prime minister?

Boris, 57, officially became PM in 2019 when Theresa May stepped down from the role following her failure to secure a Brexit deal.

She announced her resignation on June 7 and would leave the post as soon as her successor was elected from the Conservative party.

Boris had confirmed he would run for PM and, following a poll within the party members, he was a clear runner along with Jeremy Hunt. Mr Johnson was elected leader with 66% of the votes.

On July 24th, when the Queen officially accepted Theresa May's resignation, Boris was named prime minister.

Who would replace Boris Johnson as Prime Minister if he resigned?

Rishi Sunak would have been the obvious choice to take over from Boris should he resign following party gate. However, due to his own personal involvement, and his recent family tax rows, he's popularity has severely suffered.

Other choices for PM include Liz Truss, the foreign secretary, Priti Patel, the home secretary and Said Javid, the health secretary.

Jeremy Hunt is also believed to be in the running despite losing his race for Prime Minister in 2019 to Boris.

Other popular choices include Kwasi Kwarteng, the business secretary and Nadhim Zahawi, the education secretary.