Boris Johnson is a liar with his back to the wall, says French FM

Mr Ayrault said France needed a "credible and reliable" partner

France's foreign minister has said his newly-appointed British counterpart, Boris Johnson, is a liar with "his back against the wall". 

In comments to Europe 1 radio, Jean-Marc Ayrault said Mr Johnson had lied to the British people during the recent EU referendum campaign and would now be under pressure "to defend his country".


He said France needed a negotiating partner who was credible and reliable. The former London mayor led the campaign to take Britain out of the EU. He was expected to stand for the Conservative party leadership in the wake of the referendum result, but did not put himself forward after key colleagues withdrew support.

His appointment as foreign secretary has surprised many politicians and commentators around the world, who have recalled his history of undiplomatic or offensive comments.