Boris Johnson quits as U.K. lawmaker after being told he will be sanctioned for misleading Parliament

Former U.K. Prime Minister Boris Johnson shocked Britain on Friday by quitting as a lawmaker after being told he will be sanctioned for misleading Parliament.

Former U.K. Prime Minister Boris Johnson shocked Britain on Friday by quitting as a lawmaker after being told he will be sanctioned for misleading Parliament.

Johnson quit after receiving the results of an investigation by lawmakers over misleading statements he made to Parliament about "partygate," a series of rule-breaking government parties during the pandemic.

In a lengthy resignation statement, Johnson accused opponents of trying to drive him out -- and hinted that he might try to return.

"It is very sad to be leaving Parliament -- at least for now," he said.

Johnson said he had "received a letter from the Privileges Committee making it clear -- much to my amazement -- that they are determined to use the proceedings against me to drive me out of Parliament."

He called the committee investigating him a "kangaroo court."

"Their purpose from the beginning has been to find me guilty, regardless of the facts," Johnson said.