The Washington PostThe Washington Post

How the next U.K. prime minister will be chosen

By Marisa Bellack

31 Aug 2022 · 4 min read

Editor's Note

Within days, the U.K. will have its next prime minister. Less than 0.3 percent of the U.K. population will be able to choose who that is. The Washington Post explains why.

Upheaval in Britain has the world asking questions about political intricacies and oddities that are typically of interest only inside the bubble of Westminster.

British actor Hugh Grant is among those who have been trying to explain. "Dear World, You may be wondering what happens next in terms of the British constitution," he tweeted. "The answer is that 3 newspaper owners - all of whom are non domiciled in the UK for tax purposes - get together and choose our next Prime Minister or "Poodle". The Queen then anoints them."

Sign in to informed

  • Curated articles from premium publishers, ad-free
  • Concise Daily Briefs with quick-read summaries
  • Read, listen, save for later, or enjoy offline
  • Enjoy personalized content
Or

LoginForm.agreeToTerms