By James Tapsfield, Political Editor, For Mailonline
Published: 11:19 BST, 23 June 2019 | Updated: 11:19 BST, 23 June 2019
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Boris Johnson is facing damaging claims his torrid love life makes him a security risk today - as a poll found the 'screaming row' with his girlfriend has damaged his Toy leadership hopes.
Allies of rival Jeremy Hunt turned the screw on Mr Johnson in the wake of the extraordinary episode by suggesting he could be open to manipulation and even blackmail.
And Mr Johnson's team will be alarmed by a survey finding his standing among Tory activists has taken a serious hit, with four weeks to go until the successor to Theresa May is declared.
Mr Johnson came under increasing pressure today to explain what happened at the flat owned by girlfriend Carrie Symonds in the early hours of Friday morning.
Allies of rival Jeremy Hunt turned the screw on Boris Johnson (pictured at hustings in Birmingham yesterday) in the wake of the extraordinary episode by suggesting he could be open to manipulation and even blackmail
After Mr Johnson bluntly refused to answer questions at hustings, Trade Secretary Liam Fox said it would be 'easier' if he spoke frankly on the issue.
The couple were recorded by neighbours having a 'plate-smashing, screaming row' at the home in Camberwell.
Miss Symonds, 31, reportedly screamed 'get off me' and 'get out of my flat' during the bust-up with Mr Johnson. Police were called, but no formal action was taken.
But she was nowhere to be seen at the hustings, despite attending his campaign launch earlier this month.
Mr Hunt has made no secret that he hopes to make the head-to-head Tory leadership battle
