Johnson reshuffles team in move to rescue administration

LONDON, FEB 8 (REUTERS) - British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, fighting for his political survival, reshuffled some ministers in his administration on Tuesday in an effort to appease his lawmakers angered by a series of scandals. Johnson had pledged to reset his premiership to turn the tide on his gravest crisis yet, which is fueled by the fall-out from a number of boozy parties in his Downing Street office and residence during strict COVID-19 lockdown restrictions.

After appointing new hires to his team in Number 10, Johnson then reshuffled his “whips” operation - the team of lawmakers who enforce discipline in the governing Conservative Party to make sure lawmakers back government policy.

Mark Spencer, who was the chief whip, was replaced by lawmaker Chris Heaton-Harris, a close ally of Johnson who has been working shore up support among lawmakers during months of reports about lockdown-breaking parties in Downing Street.

Spencer becomes the leader of parliament’s lower chamber, the House of Commons, taking over from Jacob Rees-Mogg, who was appointed minister for Brexit opportunities and government efficiency