Leading Tory MPs have praised GB News' upcoming partnership with Boris Johnson, saying the announcement has proven the broadcaster's record as the "defender of free speech".
The former Prime Minister will join the channel as a presenter, programme maker and commentator.
Lee Anderson, Priti Patel and Jacob Rees-Mogg are among three of the MPs coming out in support of the plans, with Anderson telling GB News: "This announcement will send the left wing media outlets into meltdown."
The MP, who hosts a show on the channel, added: "GB News is here to stay and is the true voice of the nation.
"Watch the viewers of other stations now flock to the already massive audience of GB News. Welcome Boris."
Patel said: "As I said at Conservative Party Conference this year: ‘GB News is the most successful, most dynamic, no nonsense news station and the defender of free speech.’
"Today’s announcement has proven that once again.
"I know that Boris will bring his extensive experience and insights to GB News and keep GB News at the forefront of setting a strong news and current affairs agenda."
Former minister Zac Goldsmith said: "This is a phenomenal pick by GB news.
"Boris is one of the country’s most compelling communicators and he has an almost unparalleled breadth of knowledge. The Boris slot will be unmissable."
Rees-Mogg, who, like Anderson, hosts a GB News show, added: "It is excellent news, rejoice."
Conservative backbencher Jonathan Gullis also praised the announcement, telling GB News: "This is a great signing by GB News. A large amount of its viewers reflect the broad spectrum of people across our United Kingdom who gave the Conservatives the 80 seat majority in 2019.
"I look forward to tuning in and hearing Boris’ views, as I’m sure are many others."
Tory MP and GB News presenter Philip Davies described Johnson as the "biggest and most recognisable political figure of his generation", saying the plans will ensure that the broadcaster "continues to be at the centre of political and current affairs debate around the country".
He said: "I think this is a fantastic development for GB News.
"Boris is the biggest and most recognisable political figure of his generation and I am certain will build a huge audience.
"Many GB News viewers in particular love Boris and I am sure they will be delighted with this news.
"This will ensure that GB News continues to be at the centre of political and current affairs debate around the country".
Johnson, who joins in the new year, will play a key role in the channel’s coverage of both the UK general election and the US elections next year.
He will create and present a new series showcasing the power of Britain around the world, as well as hosting the occasional special in front of live audiences around the UK.
Announcing his first major broadcast role, Boris said: “GB News is an insurgent channel with a loyal and growing following. I am excited to say I will be joining shortly - and offering my frank opinions on world affairs.”
He added: “I will be talking about the immense opportunities for Global Britain - as well as the challenges - and why our best days are yet to come.”
In a video Boris also promised he would “be giving this remarkable new TV channel my unvarnished views on everything from Russia, China, the war in Ukraine, and how we meet all of those challenges, to the huge opportunities that lie ahead for us.”
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Johnson, who joins in the new year, will play a key role in the channel’s coverage of both the UK general election and the US elections next year
PA
Editorial Director Michael Booker said: “I’m delighted to say, GB News has got Boris ‘done’!
“We are tremendously proud to have him join the GB News family, particularly as we head into a seismic year of politics both here and across the Atlantic.
“Boris has been the most influential Prime Minister of our generation, and his unique insight into domestic and world affairs will be a smash hit with our viewers and listeners.
“As well as his political skills, he’s an incredibly talented journalist and author, so we can’t wait to start working with him on what will be must-see TV.”
Additional reporting by Rebeca Newnes and Christopher Hope.
