Analyse
The remark was first published in *The Times* on **June 19, 2018**, attributed to Johnson during a **private dinner with Northern Irish business leaders** in June 2018. The comment was a direct response to CBI warnings about Brexit’s economic risks. **Three separate attendees** (including DUP MP Ian Paisley Jr. and business figures) later confirmed the quote to journalists, with Paisley Jr. publicly stating Johnson used the phrase in a 'flippant' manner. Johnson himself **did not deny the remark** when questioned by media, though he framed it as a rejection of 'fearmongering.'
Achtergrond
The context was heightened tension between the UK government and business groups over Brexit negotiations, with the CBI (Confederation of British Industry) repeatedly warning about potential economic damage. Johnson, then Foreign Secretary, was a leading advocate for a hard Brexit and frequently clashed with pro-Remain voices. His remark became emblematic of the perceived **divide between political Brexit enthusiasm and business pragmatism** during the era.
Samenvatting verdict
Alexander Boris de Pfeffel Johnson did say 'Fuck business' in response to Brexit concerns from the CBI at a 2018 private dinner, as reported by *The Times* and corroborated by multiple attendees.