Boris Johnson Defends Downing Street Flat Refurbishment

Boris Johnson defended the costly refurbishment of his Downing Street flat, claiming it was necessary as the apartment looked like a 'crack den' upon his arrival. The renovation, which reportedly cost over £200,000, sparked controversy due to significant funding from Conservative donor Lord Brownlow, leading to an Electoral Commission fine for improper declaration. Johnson insisted he covered all expenses personally and denied claims that the wallpaper was gold, referring to them as 'total rubbish'. The interior designer, Lulu Lytle, was hired after Carrie Johnson criticized the previous decor as a 'John Lewis nightmare'. The former PM's comments come amidst scrutiny of spending habits, including a jab at Labour leader Keir Starmer's acceptance of gifts. Johnson's recent remarks have reignited discussions about transparency in political financing and lavish government expenditures.