Ewan McGregor Calls Boris Johnson A 'Spineless C***' For Leading 'Ludicrous' Leave Campaign Before Bowing Out Of Leadership Race

'He drives the train wreck called Brexit and walks away from the carnage.'

Ewan McGregor has led a chorus of venomous tweeters attacking Boris Johnson after labelling the former favourite to become the next Conservative Party leader a "spineless c***".

McGregor skewered Johnson on Twitter on Thursday for leading the "ludicrous" campaign for Britain to leave the European Union and then bowing out of the race to become the next Prime Minister - "to let someone else clear up your mess".

Johnson, who was tipped to replace David Cameron - who announced his resignation almost a week ago - on Thursday shocked Westminster by announcing he will not contest the party leadership.

The decision followed an announcement by Johnson's former 'Brexit' ally, Michael Gove, that he would stand..

Johnson told a press conference: "Having consulted colleagues and in view of the circumstances in parliament, I have concluded that that person (the new Prime Minister) cannot be me."

Johnson's public image soured almost immediately after Britain voted to leave the European Union. He was branded a "scumbag" by a member of the public as he left his Islington, north London, home the day after the referendum results were announced.

And earlier this week Twitter users closed in on the former larger-than-life London Mayor, finding inventive ways to curse him.

Boris Johnson, pictured above announcing he won't content the Conservative Party leadership, has been branded 'spineless' for doing so
Boris Johnson, pictured above announcing he won't content the Conservative Party leadership, has been branded 'spineless' for doing so
Matt Dunham/AP

McGregor's sentiment was shared by many on social media who believed Johnson, having championed Brexit to the British public, should now lead the country through the financial and political uncertainty left in its wake.

But not everyone was angered by Johnson's decision. Some were relieved, while others suggested he was simply buying his time before launching a fresh bid for the top job.

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