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Boris Johnson's 'Homicidal Mood' Over 2020 Exam Fiasco

10/22/2025

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Story summary

Boris Johnson, former UK prime minister, said he was in a 'homicidal mood' about the 2020 exams fiasco after WhatsApp messages showed he considered sacking Sir Gavin Williamson when an algorithm downgraded 40% of predicted exam results.
The messages show he acknowledged the slow pandemic response and overreaching restrictions on children's education.
Baroness Hallett noted severe, lasting effects on young people, and the Long Covid Advocacy group labeled actions a 'failure'.

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Story summary

Boris Johnson, former UK prime minister, said he was in a 'homicidal mood' about the 2020 exams fiasco after WhatsApp messages showed he considered sacking Sir Gavin Williamson when an algorithm downgraded 40% of predicted exam results.
The messages show he acknowledged the slow pandemic response and overreaching restrictions on children's education.
Baroness Hallett noted severe, lasting effects on young people, and the Long Covid Advocacy group labeled actions a 'failure'.