Yahoo News Guy Verhofstadt brands Boris Johnson a liar as he launches furious tirade against his Brexit plan
If Boris Johnson had hoped for civil negotiations with the EU if he becomes Prime Minister he may be in for a surprise.
Guy Verhofstadt, the EU Parliament’s Brexit negotiator, has unleashed a scathing attack on the favourite to take over as Tory leader, accusing him of "false promises, pseudo-patriotism, and foreigner bashing”.
The gloves well and truly came off Mr Verhofstadt, who said Mr Johnson will struggle to deliver his key Brexit plans, while also taking a sideswipe at his supporters.
He ranted: “To those of us watching from the outside, the debate between the candidates confirms that they have learned nothing whatsoever from the past two years of negotiations with the EU.
"Though Johnson will most likely soon find himself in a position where he must make good on his promises, he continues to spread untruths.
"Chief among them is the myth that Britain can tear up the withdrawal agreement that May negotiated with the EU, withhold its financial commitments to the bloc, and simultaneously start negotiating free-trade deals.
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"To Johnson’s followers, however, he is more prophet than politician. Only he can deliver a mythical 'true Brexit' that will deliver the prosperity promised during the referendum campaign.”
Mr Verhofstadt also stated that the EU will eclipse Britain when it comes to trade with the rest of the world.
He added: "With Johnson likely taking power in late July, Europe will have offered still more proof that Brexit is not only unnecessary but also detrimental to Britain’s economic interests.
"The 'buccaneering' Brexiteers might then finally have to explain what it is they’re still complaining about.”
Mr Johnson may not be too concerned with the attack on his character, which may only shore up support from Eurosceptics in his party determined to make him Prime Minister in July.
