London Mayor Boris Johnson on Sunday called for Britain to leave the European Union.
The Conservative leader’s decision, which he said he came to “after a huge amount of heartache,” holds heavy weight as the country is set to vote in June on whether Britain should stay in the E.U., the Washington Post reports.
“I don’t think there is anything else I can do,” Johnson said. “I will be advocating Vote Leave because I want a better deal for the people of this country, to save them money and take back control.”
Leaders are assessing a provisional deal to redefine Britain’s relationship with Brussels. Johnson’s choice goes against that of U.K. Prime Minister David Cameron, who says Britain will be “safer and stronger” within the E.U., according to the BBC.
More Must-Reads From TIME
- The 100 Most Influential People of 2024
- How Far Trump Would Go
- Scenes From Pro-Palestinian Encampments Across U.S. Universities
- Saving Seconds Is Better Than Hours
- Why Your Breakfast Should Start with a Vegetable
- 6 Compliments That Land Every Time
- Welcome to the Golden Age of Ryan Gosling
- Want Weekly Recs on What to Watch, Read, and More? Sign Up for Worth Your Time
Contact us at letters@time.com