Consequences of Boris Johnson Not Presenting the Brexit Extension Bill: A Legal Analysis

Boris Johnson, the former Prime Minister, has been a key figure in the Brexit saga, with his decisions often leading to significant legal debates and political controversies. This article explores what could happen if Boris Johnson fails to present the Brexit extension bill to the Queen for signature before Parliament is prorogued. We will delve into the legality of such an action and the potential consequences Boris Johnson might face.

Potential Legal Issues and Consequences

According to legal experts, not presenting the Brexit extension bill to the Queen would likely be seen as an illegal move. If Boris Johnson intentionally prevented the signing of the bill, he could be convicted of a criminal offense under the law currently being passed by parliament. As a result, he could face legal proceedings and even imprisonment.

Consequences of Intentional Non-Presentation

Should Boris Johnson act intentionally and without a justifiable reason, it would be considered a major political scandal. This could lead to his expulsion from politics, his removal from office, and legal action. In such a scenario, Boris Johnson could find himself in court facing a high-profile case. A conviction for breaking the law of Misconduct in Public Office is particularly serious, as it can carry severe long-term consequences. As a former prominent figure in the political landscape, Boris Johnson’s actions would have far-reaching impacts not only on his political career but also on his personal and professional standing.

Alternative Scenarios Without Legal Repercussions

There are ways in which Boris Johnson could achieve the same objective without facing the aforementioned legal and political consequences. By exploring these alternatives, he could ensure that the bill is signed into law without the need for direct intervention, thereby avoiding scrutiny and potential legal action.

Boris Johnson Could Be Jailed if He Fails to Delay Brexit

According to John Mop, a former Chief Prosecutor, if Boris Johnson fails to delay Brexit and does not present the necessary bill, he could face legal repercussions. Under the law of Misconduct in Public Office, Boris Johnson could be found in contempt and subsequently jailed. Such an action would not only result in a criminal record but also disqualification from holding office as an MP. Additionally, he would become a pariah within the establishment and be blackballed by the upper echelons of the political sphere.

Unlikely to Happen: Automatic Royal Assent

It is important to note that the automatic royal assent process could prevent this scenario. When Parliament is prorogued, any bills that have completed all their parliamentary stages automatically receive the royal assent. This means that even if Boris Johnson does not present the bill, it could still be signed into law by default, rendering the issue moot.

Conclusion

The potential consequences of Boris Johnson not presenting the Brexit extension bill are significant and varied. Whether he faces legal action, political fallout, or both, it is crucial to understand the legal framework under which these actions are judged. If Boris Johnson wishes to avoid these scenarios, exploring alternative methods to ensure the bill is signed into law is essential.

Keywords

Boris Johnson brexit royal assent proroguing parliament legal consequences