THE decision by Boris Johnson to step down as Prime Minister has been hailed as 'good news' for Cheshire West and Chester by the council's leader.

Mr Johnson announced his decision to resign as Conservative leader earlier today following a deluge of top level government resignations.

It is understood he will resign as Prime Minister once a replacement is found in a move which comes less than a month after he survived a leadership challenge.

The last 48 hours have seen dozens of resignations from ministers dissatisfied with Johnson's leadership after a string of scandals which have included fines for Downing Street parties which broke lockdown laws, and most recently claims that the Prime Minister knew of complaints about 'inappropriate behaviour' made against former deputy chief whip Chris Pincher when he appointed him.

Mr Pincher recently resigned following allegations that he groped two men at a private members' club.

Cllr Louise Gittins (Labour), Leader of Cheshire West and Chester Council, said: "It is good news for Cheshire West and for the country that Boris Johnson is resigning as Prime Minister, but it's long overdue.

"Johnson led a Government built on lies and all those in the Tory Party who supported this unfit Prime Minister should be ashamed. His behaviour isn't a surprise, his track record meant failure was entirely predictable."

Mr Johnson's decision to quit means there must now be a new Conservative leader elected, with current Deputy PM Dominic Raab and new chancellor Nadhim Zahawi among those who could be in the frame.

But Cllr Gittins added:  "The Tories caused this mess and a new Tory Prime Minister won't solve this - only a change of Government will. It's time for a Labour Government."

Cheshirew West and Chester's Conservative group declined to comment.

But Tweeting before the PM’s decision to step down, Charles Fifield, Conservative councillor for Weaver and Cuddington, said: “The Prime Minister delivered Brexit, steered the country through two years of a pandemic and has pushed a levelling up agenda. These are all things to be proud. It’s time however for a change od leadership to ensure the Government is focussed on the economy in difficult times.”